Abstract: While most DNA-related reactions have been performed in solution, freezing has also been shown to offer interesting properties. DNA oligonucleotides are stretched and aligned in ice and the aligned DNA can quickly, tightly and in some cases densely adsorb on various nanomaterials. In addition, a few ribozymes and DNAzymes have better catalytic activities in ice than in solution. Some of these observations are related to the concentration of salt and DNA in the micropockets formed between ice crystals. With these interesting examples, future research can be devoted to detailed characterization of DNA in ice using in situ measurement methods, and finding their applications in biosensor development, catalysis and origin of life.

Key words: oligonucleotides, DNAzymes, bioconjugation, nanomaterials, adsorption