Researchers demonstrate two-machine assembly of DNA networks

A research team led by Science Tokyo and Kyoto University demonstrated a two-step system that forms DNA network materials using DNA polymerase and ATP-powered kinesin motors. Polymerase grew DNA strands on microtubules, while moving microtubules brought the strands into contact and mechanically assembled fiberlike networks. The researchers reported that networks did not form without kinesin or when ATP was depleted, and that greater microtubule density and longer DNA synthesis produced more connected structures. The study was published in Small.