Construction of Artificial Cells Utilizing DNA Nanotechnology

Abstract: Programmable DNA nanostructures are excellent modules for preparing artificial cells with complex structures and functions. As a biocompatible building material, DNA nanostructures can mimic cell components on the nanoscale and serve as artificial cell structural units, such as membrane proteins, cytoskeleton, organelles, or even protocell models. The incorporation of DNA strand displacement reactions and functional nucleic acids endowed artificial cells with the capability of mimicking dynamic biological processes, such as molecular transportation, and signal transduction pathways. Herein, we focus on the recent progress in the construction of artificial cells utilizing DNA nanotechnology. DNA nanostructures used as cellular structural and functional units are summarized, and the applications of DNA-based artificial cells as biosensors or smart drug carriers are highlighted. We also discuss the perspective of DNA-based artificial cells, including the challenges in designing smart artificial cells with controllable behavior and constructing artificial cells with the cell-like function, as well as the opportunities of their potential applications.