An earring for the double helix: assembly of topological links comprising duplex DNA and a circular oligodeoxynucleotide.

Abstract Novel DNA nanostructures, locked pseudorotaxane and locked catenane were assembled through topological linkage of a double-stranded target to a circular oligodeoxyribonucleotide (cODN)(+). The formation of these supramolecular complexes occurs with remarkable sequence specificity and is accomplished via local opening of duplex DNA by a pair of homopyrimidine bis-PNAs. The obtained cODN label, resembling an earring, forms a true topological link with the linear or closed circular (cc) target DNA and occupies a fixed position along the double helix. The PNA directed assembly described here introduces PNA oligomers into the repertoire of DNA nanotechnological tools.