In situ small-angle X-ray scattering reveals strong condensation of DNA origami during silicification.

ABSTRACT: Silicification of DNA origami structures increases their stability and provides chemical protection. Yet, it is unclear whether the whole DNA framework is embedded or if silica just forms an outer shell and how silicification affects the origami's internal structure. Employing in situ small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), we show that addition of silica precursors induces substantial condensation of the DNA origami at early reaction times by almost 10 %. Subsequently, the overall size of the silicified DNA origami increases again due to increasing silica deposition. We further identify the SAXS Porod invariant as a reliable, model-free parameter for the evaluation of the amount of silica formation at a given time. Contrast matching of the DNA double helix Lorentzian peak reveals silica grow

SUBMITTER: Ober MF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9515200 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature