Size controllable DNA nanogels from the self-assembly of DNA nanostructures through multivalent host-guest interactions.

Nanogels made of biomolecules are one of the potential candidates as a nanocarrier for drug delivery applications. The unique structural characteristics and excellent biocompatibility of DNA suggest that DNA nanogels would be an ideal candidate. Herein, a general design strategy for the crafting of DNA nanogels with controllable size using the multivalent host-guest interaction between β-CD functionalized branched DNA nanostructures as the host and a star-shaped adamantyl-terminated 8-arm poly(ethylene glycol) polymer as the guest is reported.