A Nanoscale Jitterbug Transformer from DNA

Many viruses have intricate polyhedral shells capable of symmetric transformations in response to external stimuli to initiate payload release. Such deployable auxetic nanostructures are not available in the synthetic realm. Here we present a nanoscale Jitterbug transformer using DNA origami that can reconfigure its structure upon chemical and optical signals while maintaining a Poisson’s ratio of −1. By leveraging molecular dynamics simulations, we design the Jitterbug DNA to form a compact octahedron by storing elastic energy and spontaneously transition into an expanded cuboctahedron by releasing it. DNA transformers are explored like viruses that can create nanopores on lipid membranes and regulate payload release into vesicles. This work integrates programmable DNA self-assembly with free-energy-guided mechanical design, providing a pathway toward adaptive nanomaterials with potential in synthetic organelles and stimuli-responsive nanodevices.