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DNA is widely explored as a programmable element to fabricate nanostructures, while it faces challenges when forming assemblies at larger length scale without the aid of polymers or nanomaterials. Now, A. Walther and co-workers found single-stranded DNA with purine-rich poly-A and poly-G sequences can itself undergo a defined lower critical solution temperature-type phase transition at elevated temperature like other polymers, and exploited this to realize all-DNA superstructures. The cover art depicts DNA protocells containing liquid DNA encapsulated in a DNA hydrogel shell, which are formed via a quick one-step heating cycle exploiting this newly discovered concept, as well as their higher-level organization into cellular hydrogel.
Fluorine-rich layers on both anode and cathode protect the electrodes and provide rechargeable lithium metal batteries with high energy density and intrinsic safety.
A phase-separated state is observed with single-stranded DNA composed of ‘polymeric’ blocks and exploited to programme the assembly of micrometre-sized all-DNA colloidal particles.
Permeation experiments and simulations show that the ion diffusion rate in confinement can be reversibly modulated and significantly enhanced with a potential of less than 0.5 V.
Nanotechnology could make agriculture more efficient and more sustainable, but more systematic understanding of the mechanisms involved is necessary to prove the potential of nano-enabled agrochemicals.
This Perspective provides an overview of the potential of nanotechnology to provide low-cost monitoring of chemicals, microbes and other analytes in drinking water.
Initial studies indicate that consumer concerns about nanomaterial use in point-of-use water systems may be overestimated by manufacturers. Nevertheless, manufacturers should continue to focus on building consumer confidence in the safety of their products.
Analysis of existing data on nanofertilizers and nanopesticides show that they have a gain in efficacy with respect to conventional products, but more data are necessary to evaluate all risks and benefits of using these materials in agriculture.
Palladium atoms hosted in exfoliated graphitic carbon nitride display improved activity, selectivity and stability compared to state-of-the-art homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts for Suzuki coupling reactions.
An adapted framework based on the Ashby material selection strategy can be used to select nanomaterials based on their functional performance and on their environmental and human health considerations.
A fluorinated electrolyte forms a few-nanometre-thick interface both at the anode and the cathode that stabilizes lithium-metal battery operation with high-voltage cathodes.
Single-stranded DNA with purine-rich poly-A and poly-G sequences can undergo a defined lower critical solution temperature-type phase transition at elevated temperature like other polymers, which can be exploited to realize defined kinetic microparticle assemblies.
Magnetic fucoidan-based nanoparticles conjugated with T-cell activators and checkpoint inhibitors can be directed to tumours via magnetic navigation for improving therapeutic efficacy and reducing systemic side effects.