2025/10/10 by Križan Jurinović, Merry Mitra, Jurinović, Križan +5 · 1 citation
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · #Advanced biosensing and bioanalysis techniques #Biomolecules (q-bio.BM) #DNA Repair Mechanisms #DNA and Nucleic Acid Chemistry #FOS: Biological sciences #Molecular Networks (q-bio.MN)
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.2510.09372
openalex publication_date 2025/10/10 · openalex created_date 2025/10/14 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
DNA strand displacement (SD) reactions are central to the operation of many synthetic nucleic acid systems, including molecular circuits, sensors, and machines. Over the years, a broad set of design frameworks has emerged to accommodate various functional goals, initial configurations, and environmental conditions. Nevertheless, key challenges persist, particularly in reliably predicting reaction kinetics. This review examines recent approaches to SD reaction design, with emphasis on the properties of single reactions, including kinetics, structural factors, and limitations in current modelling practices. We identify promising innovations while analysing the factors that continue to hinder predictive accuracy. We conclude by outlining future directions for achieving more robust and programmable behaviour in DNA-based systems.