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Aptamer-Based Target Detection Facilitated by a 3-Stage G-Quadruplex Isothermal Exponential Amplification Reaction
Published on: October 6, 2022
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A two-signal aptasensor for sensitive exosome detection via rolling circle amplification and G-quadruplex structure
Xu Sun1, Qing Dong1, Xuemei Zhang2
1State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, CAS, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, P. R. China.
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry
|October 3, 2025
Summary
We developed a sensitive aptamer-based biosensor for exosome detection using nucleic acid amplification and G-quadruplexes. This cost-effective platform offers high sensitivity for improved cancer diagnostics.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Exosomes are crucial biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
- Clinical application of exosome detection is hindered by technical challenges.
- Need for sensitive, efficient, and cost-effective detection methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a sensitive aptamer-based platform for exosome detection.
- To integrate nucleic acid amplification and G-quadruplex (G4) structures for dual-signal output.
- To overcome technical challenges in clinical exosome diagnostics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized CD63 antibody-conjugated magnetic beads for exosome capture.
- Employed aptamers and rolling circle amplification (RCA) for signal amplification.
- Integrated G-quadruplex (G4) structures with Hemin and NMM for colorimetric and fluorescent dual-signal output.
Main Results:
- Achieved high sensitivity with low detection limits (1.78×10³ particles/mL colorimetric, 96 particles/mL fluorescence).
- Demonstrated robust performance in complex biological media (exosome-depleted FBS).
- Platform exhibits cost-effectiveness ($5.19 per test), comparable sensitivity to existing methods.
Conclusions:
- The developed aptamer-based platform offers a sensitive, robust, and affordable solution for exosome detection.
- This biosensor shows significant promise for advancing clinical exosome-based diagnostics.
- Addresses key technical challenges, paving the way for wider clinical application.

