Self-assembly based on molecular recognition can provide a versatile technique for the site-controlled implementation of nano-components. In this context, the properties that make DNA so successful in acting as a genetic material also make it a suitable candidate for constructing new materials on the nanometre scale: DNA can be engineered to both create scaffolds or circuits, and attach to other materials in order to include those materials in the self-assembly process. Thus, we impaired biological recognition to carbon nanotubes and demonstrated their self-assembly into field effect transistors (CNTFETs). Here, we will overview the main steps required to template onto DNA single-wall carbon nanotubes circuits: (i) the control of SWNT-DNA binding (ii) the DNA scaffold, (iii) the metallization of DNA to electrically connect the circuits and (iv) the addressing of the scaffold to nano-electrodes.

Nanotransistors are important key enabling elements for future emerging nanotechnology but one can envision enhancing functionalities of circuits by designed nano-constructions. Here, assemblies for nano-photonics applications are of potential interest. We will discuss this approach and point out the issues to be solved to provide a functional and competitive DNA-based technology.