Screening for GaN-Binding DNA Aptamers

Nanoscale structures such as nanotubes, nanowires, and nanoparticles can be synthesized with relative ease. However, assembling these nanostructures into useful devices in a controlled fashion still remains a major challenge in the field of nanotechnology. Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules that specifically bind to a spectrum of targets such as proteins and organic ligands. In this study, we strive to extend the specificity of aptamers to nanostructures and employ them as assembly tools for nano-scale devices, in addition to catalysts for synthesizing novel nanostructures. Aptamers specific to crystalline GaN are being screened for in an 80 nucleotide random single stranded DNA library using the process SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment). Once such aptamers are identified, their assembly and catalysis functions will be explored.