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Development of DNA aptamers specific for small therapeutic peptides using a modified SELEX method
Jaemin Lee1, Minkyung Ryu1,2, Dayeong Bae1,2
1Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea.
Journal of Microbiology (Seoul, Korea)
|June 22, 2022
Summary
This study presents a rapid aptamer selection method using magnetic beads. The new technique successfully identified an aptamer targeting an antimicrobial peptide for potential therapeutic applications.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Aptamers are DNA or RNA oligonucleotides with high affinity for target molecules.
- They are valuable in diagnostics and targeted drug delivery due to stability and synthesis ease.
- Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX) is the standard aptamer selection process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a modified SELEX method for rapid, high-yield aptamer screening.
- To isolate aptamers targeting specific molecules, such as antimicrobial peptides.
- To explore the potential of aptamers in developing novel therapeutic agents.
Main Methods:
- A modified SELEX protocol utilizing two types of magnetic beads was developed.
- This method aims to accelerate aptamer screening and increase yield.
- An aptamer targeting an antimicrobial peptide was successfully isolated.
Main Results:
- The modified SELEX method demonstrated rapid aptamer screening with high yields.
- A specific aptamer that binds to an antimicrobial peptide was identified.
- The selected aptamer holds potential for therapeutic applications.
Conclusions:
- The described modified SELEX method offers an efficient approach for aptamer discovery.
- The isolated aptamer can be conjugated to delivery systems like gold nanoparticles for enhanced stability and intracellular delivery.
- This research paves the way for developing new therapeutic agents based on aptamers and small therapeutic peptides.
