Dual-input regulation and positional control in hybrid oligonucleotide/discotic supramolecular wires

The combination of oligonucleotides and synthetic supramolecular systems allows for novel and long-needed modes of regulation of the self-assembly of both molecular elements. Discotic molecules were conjugated with short oligonucleotides and their assembly into responsive supramolecular wires studied. The self-assembly of the discotic molecules provides additional stability for DNA-duplex formation owing to a cooperative effect. The appended oligonucleotides allow for positional control of the discotic elements within the supramolecular wire. The programmed assembly of these hybrid architectures can be modulated through the DNA, for example, by changing the number of base pairs or salt concentration, and through the discotic platform by the addition of discotic elements without oligonucleotide handles. These hybrid supramolecular-DNA structures allow for advanced levels of control over 1D dynamic platforms with responsive regulatory elements at the interface with biological systems.