Nucleic Acids and Their Analogues for Biomedical Applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Nucleic acids possess inherent molecular recognition, programmability, and synthetic accessibility.
• They are utilized in gene regulation, therapeutics for genetic disorders, and biosensing platforms.
• Chemical modifications and nanomaterial integration enhance nucleic acid functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development and biomedical applications of natural and modified nucleic acids.
• To present progress in DNA-based nanomaterials for various applications.
• To discuss future directions and challenges in nucleic acid research.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on nucleic acid biomaterials and nanostructures.
• Analysis of chemically modified nucleic acid analogues.
• Examination of self-assembled DNA-based platforms.

Main Results:

• Nucleic acids serve as adaptable biomaterials with diverse biomedical uses.
• Chemical modifications and self-assembly improve stability, cellular uptake, and performance.
• DNA-based nanomaterials show promise in gene regulation, biosensing, drug delivery, and therapy.

Conclusions:

• Nucleic acids and their analogues are crucial for advancing biomedical technologies.
• Self-assembled nucleic acid nanostructures offer enhanced biological properties.
• Continued research is essential to overcome challenges and unlock full potential.