The unique chiral structure of DNA has been a source of inspiration for the development of a new class of bio-inspired catalysts . The novel concept of DNA -based asymmetric catalysis, which was introduced only five years ago, has been applied successfully in a variety of catalytic enantioselective reactions. In this tutorial review, the ideas behind this novel concept will be introduced, an overview of the catalytic chemistry available to date will be given and the role of DNA in catalysis will be discussed. Finally, an overview of new developments of potential interest for DNA -based asymmetric catalysis will be provided.