G-quadruplex-based aptamers against protein targets in therapy and diagnostics

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Genomics

Background:

• Nucleic acid aptamers are single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules with high affinity for specific targets.
• SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) technology identifies aptamers from combinatorial libraries.
• G-rich sequences forming G-quadruplex (G4) structures are frequently observed in aptamers targeting proteins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in SELEX technology for aptamer identification.
• To highlight the prevalence of G4 structures in aptamers targeting biologically relevant proteins.
• To discuss the therapeutic and diagnostic potential of G4-based aptamers.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent advancements in SELEX technology, including microfluidics and next-generation sequencing.
• Analysis of G4 structures in aptamers selected against protein targets.
• Overview of G4-based aptamers for therapeutic and diagnostic applications.

Main Results:

• SELEX technology has advanced for rapid aptamer identification.
• G-quadruplex structures are recurrent in aptamers targeting relevant proteins.
• G4-forming motifs in genomic regions can act as potential aptamers.
• G4-based aptamers show promise in therapeutics and diagnostics.

Conclusions:

• Advancements in SELEX and the prevalence of G4 structures enhance aptamer discovery.
• G4-based aptamers hold significant potential for therapeutic interventions and diagnostic tools.