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Therapeutic applications of AS1411 aptamer, an update review
Rezvan Yazdian-Robati1, Payam Bayat2, Fatemeh Oroojalian3
1Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
Abstract:
Nucleolin or C23, is one of the most abundant non-ribosomal phosphoproteins of nucleolus. However, in several cancers, nucleolin is highly expressed both intracellularly and on the cell surface. So, it is considered as a potential target for the diagnosis and cancer therapy. Targeting nucleolin by compounds such as AS1411 aptamer can reduce tumor cell growth. In this regard, interest has increased in nucleolin as a molecular target for overcoming cancer therapy challenges. This review paper addressed recent progresses in nucleolin targeting by the G-rich AS1411 aptamer in the field of cancer therapy mainly over the past three years.
Insights
Nucleolin, a protein highly expressed in cancers, is a promising target for diagnosis and therapy. The G-rich AS1411 aptamer shows potential in reducing tumor cell growth, offering new avenues for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Nucleolin (C23) is a key nucleolar phosphoprotein.
- Elevated nucleolin expression is observed in various cancers, both intracellularly and on cell surfaces.
- This makes nucleolin a significant molecular target for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in targeting nucleolin for cancer therapy.
- To focus on the application of the G-rich AS1411 aptamer in cancer treatment over the past three years.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on studies published within the last three years.
- Analysis of research on nucleolin as a therapeutic target.
- Evaluation of the efficacy of the AS1411 aptamer in preclinical and clinical cancer models.
Main Results:
- Nucleolin is a validated target for cancer therapy due to its overexpression in malignant cells.
- The AS1411 aptamer has demonstrated significant potential in inhibiting tumor cell proliferation.
- Targeting nucleolin offers a promising strategy to overcome existing cancer therapy challenges.
Conclusions:
- Nucleolin is a viable molecular target for novel cancer therapies.
- The AS1411 aptamer represents a promising therapeutic agent for various cancers.
- Continued research into nucleolin-targeting strategies is crucial for advancing cancer treatment.

