DNA Origami Arm Powered by a Local Heater

DNA-based micromachines leverage forces generated by hybridization of DNA base pairs. This force, which is of the order of several piconewtons is sufficient to move micron-sized particles and achieve transport at the microscopic scale. We create a DNA origami-based machine that is a semi-flexible hinge made out of single-stranded DNA and a lever arm made with 6 helix bundles. Complimentary DNA single strands on either side of the hinge hybridize and hold the hinge in a closed position. The DNA strands dehybridize with increase in temperature resulting in opening of the hinge. A thin-film resistive heater that acts as its own thermometer is used as a local heating source in the vicinity of this DNA machine. We can cycle temperature between 20°C and 30°C above 100Hz close to the heater and measure the opening and closing response of the DNA hinge.