DNA origami
Folding DNA into chosen shapes a few nanometers in size.
DNA origami folds one long strand of DNA into a designed shape, held by many short strands that pin it in place. The shapes can hold other molecules in exact positions, and researchers use them to build tiny containers and machines.
Where it matters
Technologies we track
- DNA origamiStep 1 · LabDNA origami folds a long strand of DNA into chosen shapes and patterns a few nanometers in size, held in place by short DNA strands, like a pegboard on which other molecules can be placed exactly.
- DNA nanorobots for cancerStep 2 · PrototypeA sheet of DNA origami rolled into a tube carries a blood-clotting enzyme.