(755c) CdTe/DNA Assembly to Create 2D Sheets

In this approach, the already known CdTe nanoparticle assemblies to create 1D nanowires were employed for the incorporation of linear DNA molecules. Two different lengths of DNA with different sequences were chosen as building blocks to self-assemble the CdTe nanoparticles. Results showed 2D sheet structures were formed in both the cases as compared to the known 1D nanowires. The idea proves that nanoparticle and DNA do interact and introduction of DNA dictates the final structure of the nanocomposite formed. On the contrary, the circular plasmid DNA when assembled with CdTe nanoparticles did not form any sheets, but lead to long wires. The temperature change and higher ionic strength lead were also investigated to dis-assemble the 2D sheets, which later formed 1D nanowires. The dynamic approach enhances our understanding to design CdTe/DNA hybrid materials with controlled architectures.