Building and Imaging DNA Nanostructures From

Computational Design

Jamarius Waller

University of Mississippi (Biochemistry)

Mentor: Dr. Randy Wadkins

Introduction

• DNA has been studied by its basic functions.• Scientist recently discovered novel uses for DNA.

– New methods involve folding, bending, and twisting DNA to make secondary structures.

• Exploration of uses of these new functions

Background: Cadnano/CanDo

• Computer software used to design DNA that was developed by biochemist at MIT

• Templates are formed in cadnano• Shaped DNA structure are rasterized from template in

CanDo.

Background: DNA Origami

– Common name for DNA nanostructures– The term DNA origami was developed around 20

years ago.– A few structures have been made using this

technique.

Background: AFM/ Gel E.

• (Atomic force microscopy)– Used to visualize DNA origami structures

• Gel Electrophoresis– Comparative band lengths and weights to determine

differences in DNA samples

Phases of Research

• 3 Phases – Computational Phase– Experimental Phase– Imaging Phase

Computational Phase

• Computer software CadNano/Cando• 3 step template process

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Results: Computational

Experimental Phase

• Combination of DNA strands– 1:100 Ratio of scaffold to staple

• Annealing of complimentary bases– Rapid heating to 95oC and a slow cooling to 20oC– Using a ramp rate of -1oC

Imaging Phase

• 2 Ways of Imaging– Gel electrophoresis– AFM

Gel 1: 4oC at 130V

LadderScaffoldFinal Product

AFM Images

• Under Construction

Discussion

• Why are we studying this?– Future Implications– Bio Carriers– Nanobots– Novel Techniques

Acknowledgements

Dr. Randy Wadkins PhD.

Dr. Donald Cole PhD.

Ms. Demetria Hereford

2013 McNair Scholars

GRE Class Instructors

QUESTIONS/COMMENTS?

Building and Imaging DNA Nanostructures From

Computational Design

Jamarius Waller

University of Mississippi (Biochemistry)

Mentor: Dr. Randy Wadkins