任劲松课题组蒲芳同学文章被Adv. Mater. 接收,文章发表在Adv. Mater. 2014 , 26, 5742–5757上。
Logic gates can convert input signals into a defi ned output signal, which is the fundamental basis of computing. Inspired by molecular switching from one state to another under an external stimulus, molecular logic gates are explored extensively and recognized as an alternative to traditional siliconbased computing. Among various building blocks of molecular logic gates, nucleic acid attracts special attention owing to its specifi c recognition abilities and structural features. Functional materials with unique physical and chemical properties offer signifi cant advantages and are used in many fi elds. The integration of nucleic acids and functional materials is expected to bring about several new phenomena. In this Progress Report, recent progress in the construction of logic gates by combining the properties of a range of smart materials with nucleic acids is introduced. According to the structural characteristics and composition, functional materials are categorized into three classes: polymers, noble-metal nanomaterials, and inorganic nanomaterials. Furthermore, the unsolved problems and future challenges in the construction of logic gates are discussed. It is hoped that broader interests in introducing new smart materials into the fi eld are inspired and tangible applications for these constructs are found.