Pioneering artificial cell-like structures with DNA nanotechnology-based liquid-liquid phase separation

• DOI: 10.2142/biophysico.bppb-v21.0010
• Publication Date: 2024-01-29T22:10:58Z
• Authors: Yusuke Sato; Masahiro Takinoue
• Keywords: Review Article (Invited); 0301 basic medicine; QH301-705.5; Physiology; Physics; QC1-999; dna nanostructure; water-in-oil emulsion; 03 medical and health sciences; QP1-981; dna droplets; Biology (General); dna computing

Recent studies have revealed that liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) plays crucial roles in various cellular functions. Droplets formed via LLPS within cells, often referred to as membraneless organelles, serve concentrate specific molecules, thus enhancing biochemical reactions. Artificial systems been utilized construct synthetic cell models, employing a range of molecules. based on DNA nanotechnology are particularly notable for their designable characteristics droplet formation, dynamics, properties, and functionalities. This review surveys recent advancements DNA-based systems, underscoring the programmability afforded by DNA's base-pair interactions. We discuss fundamentals including temperature-dependence physical along with precise control achievable through sequence design. Attention is given nanostructures two-dimensional closed interfaces, which results spatial pattern formation at interface. Furthermore, we spotlight potential computing cancer diagnostics microRNA recognition. envision presents versatile platform exploration mimicry opens innovative ways development functional cells.