The stability and number of nucleating interactions determine DNA hybridization rates in the absence of secondary structure.

The kinetics of DNA hybridization are fundamental to biological processes and DNA-based technologies. However, the precise physical mechanisms that determine why different DNA sequences hybridize at different rates are not well understood. Secondary structure is one predictable factor that influences hybridization rates but is not sufficient on its own to fully explain the observed sequence-dependent variance.

Rapid Exchange of Stably Bound Protein and DNA Cargo on a DNA Origami Receptor.

Biomolecular complexes can form stable assemblies yet can also rapidly exchange their subunits to adapt to environmental changes. Simultaneously allowing for both stability and rapid exchange expands the functional capacity of biomolecular machines and enables continuous function while navigating a complex molecular world. Inspired by biology, we design and synthesize a DNA origami receptor that exploits multivalent interactions to form stable complexes that are also capable of rapid subunit exchange.