Figure 3. DNA nanoswitch barcodes for multiplexed detection of nucleic acids.
(a) Design of the DNA nanoswitch with variable regions (V1-V12) that allow programmable placement of detectors, resulting in nanoswitches with different loop sizes. (b) A mixture of nanoswitches with different loop sizes yields a multiplexed gel readout of up to 6 gene fragments (inset). Each target nucleic acid triggers the formation of a specific loop, providing a unique signal (targets are colored for clarity). (c) Demonstration of lack of cross-reactivity in nanoswitches designed for 6 different gene fragments. (d) Full set of DNA nanoswitch barcodes showing detection of all possible combinations of the 6 gene fragments.