Base-Sequence-Independent Efficient Redox Switching of Self-Assembled DNA Nanocages.

Stimuli responsivity has been extensively pursued in dynamic DNA nanotechnology, due to its incredible application potentials. Among diverse dynamic systems, redox-responsive DNA assembly holds great promise for broad applications, especially considering that redox processes widely exist in various physiological environments. However, only a few studies have been reported on redox-sensitive dynamic DNA assembly. Albeit ingenious, most of these studies are either dependent on the DNA sequence or involve chemical modification. Herein, a facile and universal mechanism to realize redox-responsive self-assembly of DNA nanocages (tetrahedron and cube) driven by the interconversion between cystamine and cysteamine toward dynamic DNA nanotechnology is reported.