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Title: Structure and luminescence of DNA-templated silver clusters
DNA serves as a versatile template for few-atom silver clusters and their organized self-assembly. These clusters possess unique structural and photophysical properties that are programmed into the DNA template sequence, resulting in a rich palette of fluorophores which hold promise as chemical and biomolecular sensors, biolabels, and nanophotonic elements. Here, we review recent advances in the fundamental understanding of DNA-templated silver clusters (Ag N -DNAs), including the role played by the silver-mediated DNA complexes which are synthetic precursors to Ag N -DNAs, structure–property relations of Ag N -DNAs, and the excited state dynamics leading to fluorescence in these clusters. We also summarize the current understanding of how DNA sequence selects the properties of Ag N -DNAs and how sequence can be harnessed for informed design and for ordered multi-cluster assembly. To catalyze future research, we end with a discussion of several opportunities and challenges, both fundamental and applied, for the Ag N -DNA research community. A comprehensive fundamental understanding of this class of metal cluster fluorophores can provide the basis for rational design and for advancement of their applications in fluorescence-based sensing, biosciences, nanophotonics, and catalysis.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
2025790
PAR ID:
10278370
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ; ; ;
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Nanoscale Advances
Volume:
3
Issue:
5
ISSN:
2516-0230
Page Range / eLocation ID:
1230 to 1260
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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