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Updated: May 2, 2026

Mapping the Binding Site of an Aptamer on ATP Using MicroScale Thermophoresis
Published on: January 8, 2017
An enzyme substrate binding aptamer complex based time-resolved fluorescence sensor for the adenosine deaminase
Kai Zhang1, Qianlu Yang, Jue Zhang
1Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Ministry of Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214063, China.
This study introduces a novel aptamer-based fluorescence sensor for detecting adenosine deaminase (ADA) enzyme activity. The sensor accurately measures ADA levels down to 0.5 U L⁻¹ in buffer and serum, enabling sensitive enzyme detection.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is a crucial enzyme in purine metabolism.
- Accurate detection of ADA activity is vital for diagnosing various diseases.
- Existing methods for ADA detection may lack sensitivity or require complex procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a sensitive and reliable fluorescence sensor for adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity detection.
- To utilize an enzyme substrate binding aptamer complex for enhanced sensor performance.
- To validate the sensor's efficacy in both buffer solutions and biological samples like serum.
Main Methods:
- A DNA probe with an adenosine aptamer, dual-labeled with biotin and digoxigenin (DIG), was designed.
- The probe was immobilized on a streptavidin-coated microplate.
- Enzyme activity was detected by monitoring the accessibility of the DIG tag to an anti-DIG-HRP conjugate, leading to a fluorescence signal via a Eu³⁺-labeled antibody.
Main Results:
- The developed sensor demonstrated accurate reflection of ADA enzyme activity.
- A low detection limit of 0.5 U L⁻¹ for ADA was achieved.
- The sensor performed effectively in both buffer solutions and human serum samples.
- The study successfully investigated the effect of an ADA inhibitor, erythro-9-(2-hydroxy-3-nonyl) adenine hydrochloride, at concentrations as low as 0.01 nM.
Conclusions:
- The aptamer-based fluorescence sensor provides a sensitive and accurate method for ADA activity detection.
- The sensor's ability to function in serum expands its potential diagnostic applications.
- This approach offers a promising tool for biochemical analysis and enzyme activity monitoring.
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