DNA Architecture switching by azobenzene

This project aimed to create DNA molecules that are bound to each other at joints made of azobenzene. The switchable property of azobenzene could mean that the breaking DNA duplexes and joining them to other molecules could be controlled by switching between UV and visible light.

The project took place in, and used the knowledge of, the Rachel O'Reilly Group labs.

It was found that the synthesis of these moleuces was very challenging, and time ran out to test the photoswitching property. However, the DNA-Azobenzene-DNA molecule was successfully made, so further work is to repeat with larger quantities of DNA and test photoswitching.

The presentation I gave to the 2011 MOAC intake about this project is here.