Alice Scarpellini
Papers
1
Total Citations
65
H-Index
1
About
Dr. Alice Scarpellini is a pioneering figure in DNA nanotechnology, whose work bridges the gap between molecular engineering and therapeutic delivery. Her primary research focuses on the design and control of DNA origami nanorobots—self-assembling nanostructures that can perform precise mechanical tasks at the nanoscale. Her most cited work, "A DNA Origami Nanorobot Controlled by Nucleic Acid Hybridization" (2014, 65 citations), introduced a groundbreaking prototype: a cylindrical nanorobot just 14 nm in diameter and 48 nm long, equipped with a switchable flap. This device could transition from a disarmed to an armed configuration in response to specific nucleic acid signals, demonstrating a physical mechanism for controlled cargo release. This achievement marked a significant step toward smart, stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems. Scarpellini’s contributions have helped establish the foundational principles for integrating mechanical motion into DNA-based devices, inspiring subsequent work in targeted therapeutics and biosensing. Her research continues to push the boundaries of what is possible at the intersection of biology, materials science, and robotics, offering a compelling vision for the future of nanomedicine.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1A DNA Origami Nanorobot Controlled by Nucleic Acid Hybridization65 citations · 2014