DNA as scaffolding for nanophotonic structures

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) chains can be engineered for diverse nanophotonics applications by the insertion of molecular groups in different spatial configurations. DNA chains can be assembled into wire-like structures, origami structures, photonic crystal-like assemblies, liquid-crystal phases, and thin films. These structures can be made to serve as scaffolds for the organization of various organic molecules and nanoparticles. The properties of nanostructures can be modified by the use of DNA and DNA modified by the surfactants. (C) 2012 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). [DOI: 10.1117/1.JNP.6.064505]