We can employ canonical base-pairing (AU/GC) of nucleic acids to build self-assembled RNA micron-sized structures with nanoscale features. We program multiple individual strands of RNA to assemble into a double crossover tile motif. The tile has single stranded overhangs or sticky ends that permit individual tiles to interact and assemble into larger assemblies The type of assembly depends on features such tile geometry and sequence content.

RNA contains genetic information, but it is also a functionally rich and diverse biomaterial responsible for regulating several cellular processes. We incorporated functional RNA domains in our self-assembled structures to allow for gene silencing capabilities. We demonstrated a proof of concept where observed silencing of the expression of GFP in cells that expressed GFP. Further, we demonstrated therapeutic potential where we observed silencing of a gene whose down regulation causes cell death in prostate cancer cells.

Biomolecular condensates are specialized non-membrane bound compartments formed by cells through the phase separation of intrinsically disordered protein-nucleic acid complexes. These condensates function as sites for the sequestration and organization of molecules as well as vessels for biochemical reactions. We are able to design and synthesize artificial RNA condensates capable of binding target molecules and self-segregation.