Abstract:

While the intrinsic conductivity of DNA duplex is still under controversy，DNA metallization becomes a promising way to achieve enhanced conductivity of DNA and thus is the key to its applications in nanoelectronics. This review summarizes recent methodological developments in the metallization of DNA including electrostatic adsorption，electroless deposition，DNA self-assembly and metal evaporation. Some typical applications of metallized DNA in catalysis，sensing，nanodevices and nanoelectronics were introduced. Future challenges and promises of this field are also discussed.