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Primer-Free Aptamer Selection Using A Random DNA Library
Published on: July 26, 2010
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An aptamer-enabled DNA nanobox for protein sensing.
Marco S L Tang1, Simon Chi-Chin Shiu1, Maia Godonoga2
1School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
Nanomedicine : Nanotechnology, Biology, and Medicine
|February 8, 2018
Summary
This study introduces DNA nanoboxes that open in response to a specific malaria biomarker protein. This aptamer-enabled nanotechnology offers new possibilities for protein detection and targeted delivery systems.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Nanotechnology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- DNA nanostructures offer dynamic responses to molecular triggers.
- Existing DNA sequence triggers limit the diversity of molecular inputs.
- DNA aptamers can bridge molecular recognition and functional responses in nanostructures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and optimize a DNA nanobox system triggered by a specific protein.
- To demonstrate the use of DNA aptamers as molecular keys for DNA nanostructures.
- To target the malaria biomarker protein Plasmodium falciparum lactate dehydrogenase.
Main Methods:
- Construction and optimization of a DNA origami nanobox.
- Incorporation of a DNA aptamer targeting Plasmodium falciparum lactate dehydrogenase.
- Utilizing the target protein as a molecular trigger for nanobox opening.
Main Results:
- Successfully constructed and optimized a protein-gated DNA nanobox.
- Demonstrated highly specific protein-mediated opening of the nanobox.
- Verified nanobox opening using transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence assays.
Conclusions:
- Aptamer-enabled DNA nanoboxes provide a novel mechanism for protein-triggered responses.
- This technology has potential applications in nanoscale diagnostics and drug delivery.
- The system enables direct detection of proteins and other biomolecules.
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