Light-Gated Cargo Capture and Release Through Backbone-Functionalized DNA Amphiphiles

Abstract

Here, we show that DNA strands densely functionalized with photoswitches reversibly assemble into cargo capture and release systems using orthogonal light triggers. Spherical micelles assemble upon exposure to green light (530 nm), capture hydrophobic cargo, and then release said cargo upon disassembly with 365 nm irradiation; this cycle can be repeated at least 10 times without fatigue. One-step postsynthetic modification of the DNA backbone enables this technology, achieving the location-specific, multivalent attachment of light-responsive units without compromising the recognition of complementary DNA. The resulting DNA amphiphiles are robust platforms for light-controlled structural switching and cargo handling.