Advances of functional nucleic acids based on specific recognition:A review

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Nucleic acids are vital for genetic information transfer.
• Functional nucleic acids (FNAs), such as aptamers, DNAzymes, and G-quadruplexes, exhibit specific recognition and catalytic properties.
• FNAs possess advantageous characteristics including high specificity, sequence programmability, ease of modification, and biocompatibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the structure and specific recognition principles of functional nucleic acids (FNAs).
• To explore the diverse biosensing and biomedical applications of FNAs.
• To provide insights into the current challenges and future trends of FNAs as recognition elements.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on structural and functional aspects of FNAs.
• Analysis of FNA recognition mechanisms.
• Compilation and discussion of FNA applications in biosensing and biomedicine.

Main Results:

• FNAs demonstrate remarkable specificity and programmability for molecular recognition.
• Key FNA structures like aptamers, DNAzymes, and G-quadruplexes are crucial for their functions.
• FNAs have shown significant potential in areas such as biosensing, environmental monitoring, drug delivery, and cancer diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• FNAs represent a versatile class of molecules with broad applicability in diagnostics and therapeutics.
• Further research into FNA structures and recognition principles will enhance their utility.
• Addressing current challenges will unlock the full potential of FNAs in future biomedical and environmental applications.