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Modified DNA aptamers against sweet agent aspartame
Hiroshi Saitoh1, Akiko Nakamura, Masayasu Kuwahara
1Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Gunma University, Kiryu, Gunma 376-8515, Japan.
Nucleic Acids Research. Supplement (2001)
|August 9, 2003
Summary
Researchers developed a modified DNA aptamer to detect the artificial sweetener aspartame using an in vitro selection method. This novel aptamer offers a new tool for aspartame detection and analysis.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Molecular Biology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Aptamers are nucleic acid-based recognition elements.
- Developing specific detection methods for food additives like aspartame is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To obtain a modified DNA aptamer with high affinity for aspartame.
- To establish an in vitro selection process for aptamer development.
Main Methods:
- In vitro selection (affinity chromatography) using an aspartame-agarose column.
- Preparation of modified DNA using PCR with modified dTTP and KOD Dash DNA polymerase.
- Selection involved repeated cycles of binding, elution, and amplification.
Main Results:
- A modified DNA aptamer specifically binding to aspartame was successfully selected.
- The selection process utilized a synthetic DNA library with a random region.
Conclusions:
- Modified DNA aptamers can be effectively selected against small molecules like aspartame.
- This method provides a basis for developing novel aspartame detection tools.