Di Liu, December 2016: SYNTHETIC NUCLEIC ACID TOPOLOGY
Di Liu, December 2016: SYNTHETIC NUCLEIC ACID TOPOLOGY
Di Liu, December 2016: SYNTHETIC NUCLEIC ACID TOPOLOGY
Weizmann
Group
Synthetic nucleic acid and plasmonic nanomaterials design group
Research Overview
Our research explores the design and application of functional nanomaterials—particularly plasmonic and photothermal nanoparticles, as well as nucleic acid-based nanostructures—to tackle challenges in chemistry, materials science, and biomedicine. We develop light-responsive nanomaterials that enable precise and energy-efficient control over chemical synthesis, catalysis, and environmental processes. In parallel, we design programmable DNA and RNA architectures that serve as scaffolds, sensors, and dynamic molecular machines for studying biological systems and advancing molecular diagnostics.
At the core of our work is the creation of hybrid systems with emergent properties, achieved through the integration of biomolecules, synthetic compounds, and inorganic nanostructures via covalent and supramolecular interactions. This multidisciplinary approach allows us to build nanoscale platforms capable of tasks ranging from selective polymerization and real-time biosensing to water harvesting and light-triggered molecular transformations.
We are equally committed to fostering a dynamic, collaborative research environment that draws students, postdocs, and researchers from diverse disciplines. By encouraging scientific curiosity and independence within a highly interdisciplinary framework, we aim to train the next generation of innovators in nanoscale science and technology.
Specific Research Topics
Photothermal Nanochemistry
We harness the unique light-to-heat conversion properties of plasmonic nanoparticles to drive chemical transformations with high precision. By embedding photothermal agents within reaction systems, we enable localized heating that unlocks wavelength-selective synthesis of MOFs, nanocrystals, and functional polymers. This approach allows for programmable, energy-efficient catalysis and spatially resolved material assembly, paving the way for novel photoreactive platforms.
Programmable Nucleic Acid Nanostructures
Our group designs complex DNA and RNA architectures—such as origami, topological knots, and nanocages—as versatile molecular tools. These structures serve as scaffolds for real-time enzymatic assays, spatially encoded biosensors, and synthetic regulatory elements. Through precise base-pairing and structural motifs, we develop systems that can interrogate, report on, or modulate biological activity at the nanoscale.
Molecular Diagnostics and Portable Devices
Translating our nanoscale innovations into practical technologies, we develop miniaturized diagnostic platforms for rapid, sensitive molecular detection. These include plasmonic qPCR systems with ultrafast cycling speeds and DNA-based point-of-care tests for infectious diseases and cancer markers. By integrating photothermal control and nucleic acid programmability, we create diagnostic tools that are compact, robust, and deployable in clinical or field settings.
Water Harvesting and Environmental Interfaces
We engineer composite materials capable of absorbing water from humid air and releasing it on demand using photothermal energy. By combining carbon-based absorbers with responsive polymers, our materials enable passive atmospheric water harvesting suitable for arid environments. This line of research supports scalable, sustainable solutions for global water scarcity, climate resilience, and off-grid living.