Biomimetic Light Harvesting Complexes Based on Self-Assembled Dye-DNA Nanostructures

The development of novel light energy harvesting systems and the collection of photon energy to drive chemical reactions have broad application in terms of providing both power and control of photonic nanosystems. Our objective is to develop new classes of photonic nanomaterials with high complexity and dynamic adaptability based on the design principles that underlie natural light harvesting and energy conversion complexes in biology. To achieve this, we will leverage the strongly coupled nature of DNA-templated dye aggregates to provide high optical absorption cross sections and rapid energy transfer capability while taking advantage of the programmability and compatibility of DNA nanostructures to construct integrated excitonic architectures for energy capture and utilization. We will first expand our repertoire of DNA-dye aggregate building blocks into 3D structures and couple the complexes to photocatalysts for triggering specific light-dependent chemical reactions. We will then build dynamic and adaptable excitonic circuits assisted by lipid bilayers to mimic natural light-harvesting complexes with light-triggered reconfiguration and photoprotection. By building in light-activated coupling elements, network assembly and disassembly can be reversibly controlled by light. The research will demonstrate the light-harvesting power of DNA-templated dye aggregates for driving various reactions and provide a toolset for the development of biomimetic photonic materials.