DNA origami nanopores: design, developments and challenges

DNA nanotechnology has enabled the construction of DNA origami nanopores [1]. These synthetic designer nanopores promise improved capabilities for improved single molecule detection. Here, we will review the recent developments of DNA origami nanopores both in lipid [2] and solid-state membranes [3]. These structures have extraordinary versatility and are a new and powerful tool in nanobiotechnology for a wide range of important applications beyond molecular sensing. We discuss the current challenges and possible solutions that would enhance the sensing capabilities of DNA origami nanopores [4]. Finally, we anticipate novel avenues for future research and highlight a range of exciting ideas and applications that could be explored in the near future. These include using these designer nanopores as model systems for protein channels [5].

[1] N. A. W. Bell, C. R. Engst, M. Ablay, G. Divitini, C. Ducati, T. Liedl, and U. F. Keyser. DNA origami nanopores. Nano Letters, 12(1):512-517, 2012
[2] J. R. Burns, K. Goepfrich, J. W. Wood, V. V. Thacker, E. Stulz, U. F. Keyser, and S. Howorka. Lipid-Bilayer-Spanning DNA Nanopores with a Bifunctional Porphyrin Anchor, Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 52(46):12069-12072, 2013.
[3] S. Hernandez-Ainsa, N. A. W. Bell, V. V. Thacker, K. Goepfrich, K. Misiunas, M. Fuentes-Perez, F. Moreno-Herrero, and U. F. Keyser. DNA origami nanopores for controlling DNA translocation. ACS nano, 7(7):6024-6030, 2013.
[4] N. A. W. Bell and U. F. Keyser. Specific Protein Detection using Designed DNA Carriers and Nanopores. JACS, 137(5):2035-2041, 2015.
[5] K. Goepfrich, T. Zettl, A. E. C. Meijering, S. Hernandez-Ainsa, S. Kocabey, T. Liedl, and U. F. Keyser. DNA-Tile Structures Induce Ionic Currents through Lipid Membranes. Nano Letters, ASAP, 2015. http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/acs.nanolett.5b00189