Name: Playing with DNA that self-assembles
Uploaded: 2007-11-08T01:14:00Z
Duration: 4 min 46 s
Description: Paul Rothemund writes code that causes DNA to arrange itself into a star, a smiley face and more. Sure, it's a stunt, but it's also a demonstration of self-assembly at the smallest of scales -- with vast implications for the future of making things.

Paul Rothemund: Playing with DNA that self-assembles

Playing with DNA that self-assembles

Paul Rothemund writes code that causes DNA to arrange itself into a star, a smiley face and more. Sure, it's a stunt, but it's also a demonstration of self-assembly at the smallest of scales -- with vast implications for the future of making things.

Programming information into molecules allows DNA to fold itself into stars, smiley faces, and even tiny maps. By designing and ordering 250 DNA sequences, researchers can create billions of nanoscale shapes in a single drop of water. This approach opens the door to building both technological and biological artifacts from the ground up. The dream is to reach a point where programming molecules is as versatile as writing computer code.