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Abstract:

The second law of thermodynamics requires that directed motion be accompanied by dissipation of energy. Here we demonstrate the working principles of a bipedal molecular motor. The motor is constructed from DNA and is driven by the hybridization of a DNA fuel. We show how the catalytic activities of the feet can be coordinated to create a Brownian ratchet that is in principle capable of directional and processive movement along a track. This system can be driven away from equilibrium, demonstrating the potential of the motor to do work.

Abstract:

We demonstrate the use of a one-dimensional template to control the shape of a two-dimensional array self-assembled from a minimal set of DNA tiles. A periodic single-stranded template seeds tile assembly. A unique vertex tile at the 5′ end of the template controls the positioning of edge and body tiles to create a wedge-shaped array. The vertex angle of the array is approximately 12°; edge lengths are of the order of 1 μm. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.