Sequence-constructive SELEX: a new strategy for screening DNA aptamer binding to Globo H

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Globo H is a significant tumor-associated carbohydrate antigen.
• Developing specific recognition agents for Globo H is crucial for cancer diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop DNA aptamers with high affinity and specificity for Globo H.
• To employ a novel stepwise sequence-constructive SELEX method for aptamer development.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a stepwise sequence-constructive SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) method.
• Initiated SELEX with a 15-base randomized DNA library.
• Iteratively extended and randomized DNA sequences over three rounds of SELEX.

Main Results:

• The sequence-constructive SELEX approach enhanced the binding affinity of DNA aptamers to Globo H.
• Developed DNA aptamers demonstrated high selectivity, distinguishing Globo H from related structures.
• The aptamers successfully discriminated between various glycans based on structural differences.

Conclusions:

• The novel stepwise sequence-constructive SELEX method is effective for developing high-affinity and specific DNA aptamers.
• These aptamers show potential as diagnostic tools for recognizing the Globo H tumor antigen.
• The study highlights the capability of aptamers in glycan structure discrimination for cancer biomarker applications.