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Aptamers: Uptake mechanisms and intracellular applications
1Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA.
Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews
|July 9, 2018
Summary
Aptamers are small molecules that precisely target cellular components for imaging and therapy. This review explores their intracellular journey, diverse functions as intramers, and considerations for therapeutic use.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Aptamers offer precise cellular recognition due to their structural flexibility and small size.
- Cellular uptake of aptamers typically involves clathrin-mediated endocytosis or macropinocytosis, depending on the target.
- Internalized aptamers are trafficked through various intracellular organelles, including endosomes, lysosomes, and the Golgi apparatus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the intracellular fate and diverse applications of aptamers.
- To discuss the functions of intracellular aptamers (intramers) in imaging, gene regulation, and therapeutics.
- To explore immune responses and structural influences on aptamer efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of aptamer cellular internalization pathways.
- Analysis of aptamer trafficking within cellular compartments.
- Examination of intramers' functional roles and therapeutic potential.
Main Results:
- Aptamers exhibit versatile intracellular functions, acting as intramers for RNA imaging, gene regulation, and therapeutics.
- Specific intracellular organelles like mitochondria and autophagosomes can also be targets for aptamer accumulation.
- G-quadruplex structures significantly influence aptamer function and stability.
Conclusions:
- Aptamers demonstrate significant potential for intracellular applications, ranging from diagnostics to therapeutics.
- Understanding aptamer trafficking and intracellular behavior is crucial for optimizing their design and efficacy.
- Further research into immune responses and structural optimization will enhance the clinical translation of aptamer-based technologies.
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