Gold nanoparticle 3D-DNA building blocks: high purity preparation and use for modular access to nanoparticle assemblies.

Using highly functional 'building-blocks' of AuNPs mono-conjugated to three-dimensional DNA 'rung' structures, both discrete and extended linear assemblies are controllably prepared via addition of various templating backbone strands. This unique approach presents a facile alternative to other methods of AuNP organization through DNA, and has potential utility in the fields of nanophotonics and nanoelectronics.