A multistep self-assembly process is proposed for the preparation of n
anometer-scale electronics. The process is based on the assembly of a
DNA network that serves, in turn, as a template for the subsequent ass
embly of functional elements using different levels of molecular recog
nition ability. Inter-element connectivity and connection to the ''mac
roscopic world'' is achieved by instilling electrical functionality to
the DNA network. The feasibility of this approach was demonstrated by
the DNA-templated self-assembly of a 12 mu m long, ca. 1000 Angstrom
wide, conductive silver wire connecting two macroscopic electrodes.