Skip to main content
origami

origami

1 9.9
A way of folding DNA strings into tiny shapes to make small devices or to carry medicine
  • noun
  • /ɔːrɪˈɡɑːmi/
  • Specialized
translation icon : origami de ADN
  • Researchers often use origami techniques to fold DNA strands into intricate shapes for drug delivery applications.
  • DNA origami

Examples

  • The hope is that in time, the DNA origami can be used to create a scaffold to help guide the assembly of circuits made from carbon nanotubes, nanoscale wires, or other materials.

    Academic text (2009)
  • By employing origami methods, scientists can create nanoscale structures that interact with biological systems.

  • Now they put the gold particles on the DNA origami in solution.

  • Strands of DNA can be folded into fairly complex shapes through a method known as DNA origami.

    Academic text (2009)
  • The latest advancements in origami technology allow for the construction of complex DNA formations for use in sensors.

Synonyms

folding
vsorigami
1.8

A way of bending something so one part lies on top of another

is a specialized molecular technique that arranges DNA into predetermined nanoscale shapes

How Complex

DNA chip
  • Specialized
4.3
origami
  • Specialized
1 9.9
folding
  • Specialized
7.2
double helix
  • Specialized
5 4.4

Surface Forms

origami singular
origamis plural

Etymology

The word origami comes from the Japanese parts ori 'fold' and kami 'paper'. A helpful way to remember the science use is to imagine researchers 'folding' DNA into very small shapes like they fold paper, which is why the technique is called 'DNA origami'.