Reversible Self- and Directed-Assembly of DNA-Linked Micron-Sized Colloids

ORAL

Abstract

We present a technique for the directed-assembly and self-assembly of complex, static and dynamic, micron scale structures based on the fine control of specific DNA linkages between particles. The use of DNA links combined with polymer brushes provides ways to regulate the range and magnitude of addressable forces between pairs (and further combinations) of different particles. The self-assembled structure of alternated microbeads as well as the directed assembly, using laser tweezers, is reversible. The key to achieve reversibility is shown to be the control of an extremely small number, 1-3, of bridges between particles.

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Authors

  • Olivier Theodoly

    CNRS/Rhodia

  • Marie-Pierre Valignat

    Princeton University

  • P.M. Chaikin

    Department of Physics, Princeton University, Department of Physics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, Physics, Princeton, Princeton University, Princeton Univ., Physics Department, Princeton University, Physics, Princeton University, Physics Dept., Princeton Univ.

  • W.B. Russel

    Princeton University

  • John C. Crocker

    Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, University of Pennsylvania