Programmable dna-scaffold interfaces for tunable particle-surface adhesion
A patented DNA-scaffold platform enables programmable particle-surface adhesion, offering high loading capacity and modular control, applicable in biomedical delivery and industrial coatings.
Overview
The innovative DNA-scaffold surface functionalization platform, developed by Drexel University, provides programmable control over particle-surface adhesion and stability. By utilizing synthetic 17-base DNA strands densely assembled on substrates, this technology achieves significant surface-saturating coverage that enhances surface charge and hydrophilicity. The platform supports the hybridization of diverse cargos, such as small molecules, nucleic acids, proteins, and antibodies, with a remarkable >10× higher surface loading than traditional chemistries. This modular approach allows for the spatially precise organization of surface functionalities, making it an adaptable solution for both biomedical and industrial applications.
Technical specifications
- DNA-scaffold assembly: Utilizes 17-base synthetic DNA strands for dense coverage on polymeric and metallic substrates.
- Cargo hybridization: Supports a wide range of cargos, achieving high surface loading efficiency through complementary DNA strands.
- Adjustable adhesion: Enables tunable and reversible control of adhesion by modifying DNA sequence length and environmental conditions (ionic strength, pH).
- Cross-disciplinary applications: Applicable to both biological interfaces for particle delivery and synthetic interfaces for industrial coatings.
Technology readiness level
The DNA-scaffold interface platform is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4. It has been validated in laboratory settings with plans for further optimization and practical formulation through a joint research program. The upcoming phases will focus on benchmark adhesion modulation, multi-cargo assembly evaluation, and translation to practical applications, guiding future scale-up efforts.
About Drexel University
Drexel University is a comprehensive private research university in Philadelphia, recognized for an urban, industry‑embedded model anchored by a longstanding cooperative education program. Year‑round co‑ops create a ready talent pipeline and align sponsored research with real‑world needs. The campus sits within an innovation district with co‑located labs and incubators, enabling companies to collaborate on prototyping with faculty. Through the university’s medical college and clinical partners, industry teams can access clinical expertise and translational pathways. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, corporate research agreements, and startup formation.
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