Instant Nano Blocks: One-step process makes trillions of DNA pyramids

As if carrying life’s genetic code weren’t enough, DNA molecules are in demand these days as raw material for microscopic constructions. For instance, nanotechnologists have fashioned cubic and octahedral cages from the molecules (SN: 2/14/04, p. 99: Available to subscribers at Snappy DNA: Long strand folds into octahedron). Processes for crafting those frameworks, however, have been arduous and give only low yields of desired structures.