Liposomes for DNA Nanotechnology: Preparation, Properties, and Applications - DNA Nanotechnology: From Structure to Function - page 55

Chapter 4
Liposomes for DNA Nanotechnology:
Preparation, Properties, and Applications

Neeshma Dave and Juewen Liu

Abstract Over the past two decades, DNA has become a major player in
nanotechnology. A very interesting and useful method uses DNA to link various
nanoparticles, where the programmable structure and molecular recognition
function of DNA are coupled to the optical, electric, magnetic, and catalytic property
of the nanomaterials. Compared to many inorganic nanoparticles, liposomes
are self-assembled soft matters that possess surface fluidity and the potential
for molecular containment. The charge, size, and phase transition properties of
liposomes can be precisely tuned by varying liposome formulation. In this chapter,
we describe methods for liposome preparation and DNA attachment. We also
discuss the biophysical properties of DNA-functionalized liposomes and their
emerging applications in DNA-directed assembly, biosensor development, and drug
delivery.

Keywords Liposomes • DNA • Aptamers • Biosensors • Nanoparticles

4.1 Introduction

DNA is best known as a genetic material with highly predictable structures and
outstanding chemical stability. To manipulate gene expression, many biotechnolog-
ical tools such as solid phase DNA synthesis, restriction enzymes, and polymerase
chain reactions (PCR) have been developed. The same tools have also enabled
DNA-based nanotechnology over the past two decades. In addition to serving as
a structural scaffold [ 1 , 2 ], DNA has superior molecular recognition capability not

N. Dave • J. Liu ( )
Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology,
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1
e-mail: [e-mail]