Aptamers-based assays for diagnostics, environmental and food analysis

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules selected for specific target binding.
• They offer advantages over antibodies, including an unlimited supply of identical molecules.
• While therapeutic uses are established, analytical applications are under investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the analytical applications of aptamers.
• To highlight their potential in diagnostic and environmental/food analysis.
• To focus on the detection of food pathogens, terrorism threat agents, thrombin, and cytokines.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing research on aptamer selection and application.
• It focuses on aptamer-based detection systems.
• Specific examples include foodborne pathogens, threat agents, thrombin, and cytokines.

Main Results:

• Aptamers can be selected to bind diverse targets, from proteins to small molecules.
• They present a promising alternative to antibodies in analytical settings.
• Their application in diagnostics and environmental monitoring requires further validation.

Conclusions:

• Aptamers hold significant potential for analytical applications, particularly in food safety and diagnostics.
• Continued research is crucial to fully establish their advantages over traditional methods.
• This review underscores the need for further studies to demonstrate aptamer advancements in these fields.