Design of proton-fueled tweezers for controlled, multi-function DNA-based molecular device

A novel multi-functional, proton-fueled DNA tweezers has been constructed. Starting from simple conformation change of i-motif DNA, the nanodevice can accomplish movements such as repeatedly capture or release target DNA and protein. The DNA tweezers, driven by the solution pH without the need of injecting external energy, are robust and highly reversible with the responses of 1–2 orders of magnitude faster than the DNA-fueled machine, and does not accumulate duplex waste products to poison the system. Our work has demonstrated the successful combination of the operating principles of DNA-based nanomechanical device with the unique molecular recognition properties of DNA, which we believed could open an exciting avenue in the design and construction of easy-to-handle, cost-efficient, reliable and high efficient functional nanostructure.