Modulate

Programming DNA-based catalysis

Our research explores nucleic acids as catalytic platforms, focusing on DNA-based hybrid catalysts and metalloenzymes. We have developed modular DNA–metal systems that reveal how the intrinsic chirality and structure of DNA can be translated into catalytic activity and stereoselectivity. 

Building on these studies, we investigate how DNA–metal complexes may have functioned as primitive catalytic systems before the emergence of protein enzymes. In particular, we explore diverse nucleic acid structures and their interactions with biologically relevant metal ions to uncover the fundamental principles governing their catalytic behavior. 

This program aims to understand how simple nucleic acid–metal assemblies could give rise to catalytic function, contributing to the emergence of chemical complexity and early life-like systems.