Anti-VEGF DNA-based aptamers in cancer therapeutics and diagnostics

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Oncology

Background:

• Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is crucial in physiological and pathological angiogenesis, particularly in cancer progression.
• Existing VEGF inhibitors include small molecules, antibodies, and protein-based drugs, with several approved for clinical use.
• Nucleic acid-based aptamers offer high affinity and specificity for biological targets, presenting a promising avenue for anticancer strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in DNA-based aptamers designed to target VEGF.
• To discuss the therapeutic potential of these VEGF-targeting aptamers in cancer treatment.
• To highlight the significance of these aptamers in developing selective biosensors.

Main Methods:

• Focus on recent studies detailing the development of DNA aptamers against VEGF.
• Exploration of structural analogues for aptamer optimization (affinity and bioactivity).
• In vitro and in vivo evaluations of aptamer efficacy.

Main Results:

• Development of numerous DNA aptamers with high affinity and specificity for VEGF.
• Demonstration of therapeutic potential in preclinical cancer models.
• Successful application in the construction of highly selective biosensors.

Conclusions:

• DNA aptamers targeting VEGF represent a significant advancement in anticancer therapeutic strategies.
• Optimization of aptamer structure enhances target binding and therapeutic effects.
• VEGF aptamers hold considerable promise for both targeted cancer therapy and advanced biosensing applications.