Nucleic acid-cleaving catalytic DNA for sensing and therapeutics

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Chemical Biology

Background:

• DNAzymes are catalytic DNA molecules with nucleic acid-cleaving activity.
• Their versatility is expanding through discovery of new sequences and functions.
• They are recognized as cost-effective, stable, and amplifiable detection elements for sensing applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of identified DNAzymes.
• To classify DNAzymes based on their catalytic cofactor (small molecule or ion).
• To detail DNAzyme functionality, reaction conditions, and applications in sensing and therapeutics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and compilation of identified DNAzymes.
• Classification of DNAzymes by cofactor requirements.
• Analysis of DNAzyme sequences, functions, and reaction parameters.
• Evaluation of DNAzymes in sensing and therapeutic contexts.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive list and detailed descriptions of identified DNAzymes are presented.
• A novel classification based on catalytic cofactors reveals conserved regions.
• The broad functionality and optimal reaction conditions for various DNAzymes are detailed.
• The utility, advantages, and disadvantages of DNAzymes in sensing and therapeutic applications are discussed.

Conclusions:

• DNAzymes represent a powerful class of catalytic molecules with significant potential.
• Their unique properties make them valuable tools for diverse sensing and therapeutic applications.
• Further research into DNAzyme discovery and engineering will continue to expand their utility.