journal article·2026-02Open access

Bacteriophage‐Mimetic DNA Origami Needle for Targeted Membrane Penetration and Cytosolic Cargo Delivery

Anirban Samanta, Mette Galsgaard Malle, Emily Tsang, Marjan Omer, Mads K. Skaanning, Sarah Youssef, Jørgen Kjems, Kurt V. Gothelf

Advanced Science· Volume 13· Issue 10

Abstract

ABSTRACT Inspired by the natural ability of bacteriophages to deliver genetic material directly into host cells, we employed a bottom‐up approach to construct a multifunctional synthetic DNA origami needle‐like structure. This origami is functionalized with trastuzumab antibodies, cholesterol, protective polymers, and two dyes, which together enable selective targeting and insertion into SKBR3 cancer cells. A disulfide‐linked dye payload was attached to the apex of the needle, allowing controlled release in the cytoplasm triggered by the high intracellular glutathione concentration. Real‐time tracking of the payload confirmed both successful targeting of the origami structure and subsequent direct cytosolic delivery. By mimicking fundamental mechanisms of bacteriophages, we propose that this artificial needle structure can serve as a prototypical device for the targeted delivery of small‐molecule drugs directly into the cytosol.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Advanced biosensing and bioanalysis techniques · Bacteriophages and microbial interactions · Cancer Research and Treatments

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO) Aarhus University Aarhus C Denmark

Department of Chemistry Aarhus University Aarhus C Denmark

Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics Aarhus University Aarhus C Denmark

Funding

Lundbeck Foundation · H2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions · Carlsbergfondet · Novo Nordisk Fonden

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