Self-assembling of large ordered DNA arrays using superhydrophobic patterned surfaces

In this paper we present a simple and robust method to realize highly ordered arrays of stretched and suspended DNA molecules over the millimeter length scale. To this end we used an ad hoc designed superhydrophobic surface made of high aspect-ratio silicon pillars, where we deposited a droplet containing genomic DNA. A precise positioning of DNA strands was achieved by shaping the silicon pillars so that sharpened features resembling tips were included. Such features allowed us to accurately control the droplet de-wetting dynamics, pinning DNA strands in a well-defined position above pillars. The proposed technique has the potential to positively impact on the development of novel DNA chips for genetic analysis.