Answer:
As a genetic molecule, DNA can transmit genetic information from generation to generation owing to its capacity to self-replicate. In addition, genetic information can be translated to protein, which has been demonstrated in cell-free systems.
Research has shown that the DNA molecule can not only store genetic information but also serve as a polymeric biomolecule for the fabrication of functional materials. The unique precise molecular recognition capability and sequence programmability, combined with its good biocompatibility and biodegradability, impart the DNA molecule considerable potential for use in the construction of multifunctional materials. Depending on the composition, DNA-based materials have been generally categorized into pure DNA materials that are entirely composed of DNA and hybrid DNA materials that are composed of DNA and other functional compositions. Recently, we have developed a series of DNA-based materials that can be applied in diagnosis and therapy, and this review summarizes the relative work. Although challenges still exist regarding the real applications of DNA-based materials such as the high cost of DNA, the difficulty in scale-up, and the low resistance to nuclease, we believe that these drawbacks will be overcome with the development of technology, and new opportunities will emerge in the field of diagnosis and treatment.
