DNA and RNA aptamers as modulators of protein function

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) is a method for discovering nucleic acid ligands.
• Aptamers are DNA or RNA molecules isolated via SELEX that bind targets with high affinity and specificity.
• Aptamers function similarly to antibodies and are termed synthetic antibodies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution and applications of SELEX technology and aptamer development.
• To highlight the expanding range of targets for aptamer selection.
• To discuss the therapeutic and diagnostic potential of aptamers, including in vivo applications.

Main Methods:

• SELEX involves iterative cycles of selection, amplification, and sequencing to isolate high-affinity aptamers.
• Chemical modifications enhance aptamer stability against enzymatic degradation for in vivo use.
• In vitro selection methods have been extended to complex targets like cell surface receptors and whole cells.

Main Results:

• SELEX has successfully identified aptamers for a wide array of targets, including proteins, small molecules, receptors, and cells.
• Aptamers demonstrate high affinity and specificity comparable to antibodies.
• Chemically modified aptamers show enhanced stability and utility in biological systems.
• Aptamers have shown promise in preclinical animal models and clinical trials for therapeutic and diagnostic applications.

Conclusions:

• SELEX is a powerful technology for generating aptamers with diverse applications in medicine and research.
• Aptamers offer a promising alternative to antibodies for diagnostics and therapeutics.
• Further development and clinical validation are ongoing for aptamer-based applications.