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Updated: Jun 20, 2026

Sequence-specific and Selective Recognition of Double-stranded RNAs over Single-stranded RNAs by Chemically Modified Peptide Nucleic Acids
Published on: September 21, 2017
Unlike RNA-TBA (rTBA), iso-rTBA, the 2'-5'-linked RNA-thrombin-binding aptamer, is a functional equivalent of TBA.
Atish A Wagh1,2, Vaijayanti A Kumar1,2, Sapna Ravindranathan2,3
1Organic Chemistry Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune 411008, India. va.kumar58@gmail.com.
Researchers developed a novel RNA G-quadruplex (iso-rTBA) that inhibits blood clotting. This highly stable molecule shows promise as a next-generation anticoagulant, outperforming existing aptamers.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- RNA Therapeutics
Background:
- Thrombin-binding aptamers (TBAs) are crucial in anticoagulation.
- Existing RNA aptamers face limitations like nuclease susceptibility and thermal instability.
- Novel structural motifs are needed to enhance aptamer stability and efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first antiparallel, functional G-quadruplex of the 2'-5'-linked thrombin-binding aptamer (iso-rTBA).
- To evaluate the anticoagulant properties and stability of iso-rTBA.
- To compare iso-rTBA with existing thrombin-binding aptamers (TBA, rTBA, isoTBA).
Main Methods:
- Synthesis and structural characterization of the 2'-5'-linked thrombin-binding aptamer (iso-rTBA).
- Assessment of G-quadruplex formation and antiparallel orientation.
- Evaluation of nuclease resistance and thermal stability (melting temperature).
- In vitro assays to determine thrombin inhibition and clotting time.
Main Results:
- The first antiparallel, functional G-quadruplex RNA aptamer (iso-rTBA) was successfully synthesized.
- iso-rTBA demonstrated significant inhibition of thrombin-mediated clotting.
- The aptamer exhibited remarkable stability against nuclease degradation.
- High thermal stability was observed for the iso-rTBA G-quadruplex structure.
Conclusions:
- The novel iso-rTBA represents a significant advancement in aptamer design.
- Its superior stability and potent anticoagulant activity make it a promising therapeutic candidate.
- iso-rTBA is a superior alternative to TBA, rTBA, and isoTBA for anticoagulant development.
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