Synthetically Programmable DNA Binding Domains in Aggregates of DNA‐Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles

Nanoparticles that assemble into core/shell aggregate structures comprising thermally addressable, phase-separated DNA binding domains are designed. Since the strength of the DNA binding in these domains differs, these aggregate systems exhibit two distinct melting transitions upon dehybridization (see image) resulting from the stepwise disassociation of the entire structure. These materials are ideal for probing the structure–function relationship of DNA-linked nanoparticle aggregates.