Aptamer-based universal fluorometric sensors based on allosteric modulation of RNA-peptide interactions

Aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotides that serve as molecular recognition units. Aptamers targeting a range of biologically relevant molecules have been developed using selection methods and functional aptamer domains, called riboswitches, are found in natural genomic sequences. Aptamers can be used as starting points for the design of biosensors for diagnostic applications. In this study, we demonstrate a simple strategy to detect binding of an apamer to its target molecule via a fluorometric signal resulting from allosteric suppression of an RNA-peptide interaction. The broad applicability was demonstrated by detection of seven different target molecules-one drug, two antibiotics, and four natural metabolites. This strategy will enable the construction of universal biosensors for various target molecules.