Stabilization of DNA multilayer films through oligonucleotide crosslinking

Abstract

Multilayer films and capsules synthesized from DNA are of interest because they are biodegradable, biocompatible, and the structure of the films can be finely controlled by base pairing of the nucleotides. As DNA films are held together through a balance between the attractive hydrogen bonding and the aromatic stacking of the base pairs and the electrostatic repulsion of the negatively charged phosphate backbones, the films can be subject to disintegration at low salt concentrations (<200 mM). Enhancement of the stability of the films is essential if they are to be used in bioapplications. Herein, we describe an approach to form DNA films and capsules that are stable under a variety of buffe..