Decoding Life: Polymer Synthesis with DNA
Unveiling the Potential of DNA-Encoded Polymers: A New Frontier in Materials Science Imagine a world where materials are designed not just for their physical properties, but also for their inherent ability to self-assemble and adapt. This vision is becoming a reality thanks to the groundbreaking field of DNA-encoded polymers (DEP). What are DNA-Encoded Polymers? DEPs are essentially polymers – long chains of repeating units – where individual monomers carry specific DNA sequences. These DNA "tags" act as unique identifiers, allowing for precise control over the assembly and function of the polymer. Think of it like building with LEGO bricks, but instead of connecting knobs and holes, we use complementary DNA strands to guide the formation of complex structures. The Power...