Active generation of nanoholes in DNA origami scaffolds for programmed catalysis in nanocavities

DNA origami tiles provide nanostructures for the spatial and temporal control of functional loads on the scaffolds. Here we introduce the active generation of nanoholes in the origami scaffolds using DNAzymes or light as triggers and present the programmed and switchable catalysis in the resulting nanocavities. We engineer “window” domains locked into the origami scaffolds by substrates of the Zn²⁺-ion- or Pb²⁺-ion-dependent DNAzymes. Using Zn²⁺ ions and/or Pb²⁺ ions, the programmed unlocking of the “window” domains is demonstrated. The tailored functionalization of the origami scaffolds allows the programmed operation of catalytic processes in the confined nanocavities. Also, the “window” domain is integrated into the origami scaffold using photoisomerizable azobenzene-modified locks. The cyclic photoisomerization of the locks between the cis and trans states leads to a reversible opening and closure of the nanoholes and to the cyclic light-induced switching of catalytic processes in the nanocavities.