Shape-controllable Synthesis of Functional Nanomaterials on DNA Templates

DNA nanotechnology enables precise organization of nanoscale objects with extraordinarily structural programmability. Self-assembled DNA nanostructures possess a lot of interesting features, such as designable size and shape, and structural addressability at nanometer scale. Taking advantage of these properties, DNA nanostructures could work as templates or molds for the controllable synthesis of functional nanomaterials, such as organic macromolecules, metallic or inorganic nonmetallic nanomaterials. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in the shape-controllable synthesis of functional nanomaterials on DNA templates. The potential application fields of these nanomaterials are also discussed.