In vitro selection and application of lanthanide-dependent DNAzymes

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Detecting lanthanide ions with high sensitivity and selectivity remains a significant analytical challenge.
• Traditional methods often struggle with nonspecific binding, especially for highly charged cations.
• DNA-based approaches, particularly DNAzymes, offer a promising alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce RNA-cleaving DNAzymes for lanthanide ion detection.
• To detail the in vitro selection methods for lanthanide-dependent DNAzymes.
• To describe the conversion of selected DNAzymes into functional biosensors.

Main Methods:

• In vitro selection protocols for RNA-cleaving DNAzymes.
• Utilizing fluorophore-labeled DNA, avoiding radioisotope labeling.
• Characterization of selected DNAzymes and their biosensor applications.

Main Results:

• Developed DNAzymes capable of distinguishing lanthanides from non-lanthanide metals.
• Demonstrated the ability of DNAzymes to differentiate between light and heavy lanthanides.
• Showcased the use of multiple DNAzymes for discriminating individual lanthanide ions.

Conclusions:

• RNA-cleaving DNAzymes provide a robust platform for sensitive and selective lanthanide ion detection.
• These DNAzymes overcome limitations associated with aptamer selection for highly charged ions.
• The developed biosensors offer a versatile tool for lanthanide analysis without radioisotopes.