Signal Transduction Strategies for Analyte Detection Using DNA-Based Nanostructures.

The use of DNA-based nanostructures as probes has led to significant advances in chemical and biological sensing, allowing the detection of analytes in complex media, the understanding of fundamental biological processes, and the ability to diagnose diseases based on molecular signatures. The utility of these structures arises both from DNA's inherent ability to selectively recognize and bind a variety of chemical species and from the unique properties observed when DNA is restructured at the nanoscale. In this Minireview, we chronicle the most commonly used signal transduction strategies that have been interfaced with various DNA-based nanostructures. We discuss the types of analytes and the detection scenarios that are sought after, delineate the advantages and disadvantages of each signaling strategy, and outline the key considerations that guide the selection of each signaling method.

Enhancing CRISPR/Cas systems with nanotechnology.

CRISPR/Cas systems have revolutionized biology and medicine, and have led to new paradigms in disease diagnostics and therapeutics. However, these complexes suffer from key limitations regarding barriers to cellular entry, stability in biological environments, and off-target effects. Integrating nanotechnology with CRISPR/Cas systems has emerged as a promising strategy to overcome these challenges and has further unlocked structures that accumulate preferentially in tissues of interest, have tunable pharmacological properties, and are activated in response to desired stimuli. Nanomaterials can also enhance CRISPR/Cas-mediated detection platforms by enabling faster, more sensitive, and convenient readouts. We highlight recent advances in this rapidly growing field. We also outline areas that need further development to fully realize the potential of CRISPR technologies.