DNA-functionalized nanotube membranes

We now describe synthetic membranes in which the molecular-recognition chemistry used to accomplish selective-permeation is DNA hybridization. These membranes contain template-synthesized gold nanotubes with inside diameter of 12 nm, and a transporter DNA-hairpin molecule is attached to the inside walls of these nanotubes. These DNA-functionalized nanotube membranes selectively recognize and transport the DNA strand that is complementary to the transporter strand relative to DNA strands that are not complementary to the transporter. Under optimal conditions, single-base mismatch transport selectivity is obtained. 

---