Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
03:38
Aptamer-Based Target Detection Facilitated by a 3-Stage G-Quadruplex Isothermal Exponential Amplification Reaction
Published on: October 6, 2022
ETTAS: a modular aptamer-recruited platform for programmable translational activation
Aolin Li1, Xiaoting Zhang2, Senmao Li3
1Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen 518035, China.
Nucleic Acids Research
|July 25, 2026
Summary
We developed the Enhanced Targeted Translational Activation System (ETTAS) to boost protein synthesis reversibly. ETTAS enhances endogenous protein production more effectively than previous systems, offering a new therapeutic strategy.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- RNA Therapeutics
- Gene Regulation
Background:
- Enhancing endogenous protein synthesis is a reversible therapeutic strategy.
- Current Cas13-mediated translational activation systems have limitations in potency and modularity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel, modular RNA-guided platform for enhanced translational activation.
- To overcome limitations of existing systems by improving potency and expandability.
Main Methods:
- Developed the Enhanced Targeted Translational Activation System (ETTAS) using dCas13a, SINEB2 element, and an aptamer-mediated auxiliary module.
- Screened Cas13 orthologs for optimal translational activation scaffold.
- Engineered a dual-module system with aptamer-mediated recruitment to enhance translation without affecting mRNA levels.
Main Results:
- ETTAS demonstrated superior reporter activation and endogenous P53/PTEN induction compared to previous systems.
- ETTAS exhibited significant antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in bladder cancer cells.
- In vivo studies showed ETTAS activated P53 and suppressed tumor growth via dual-AAV delivery.
Conclusions:
- ETTAS provides a programmable framework for modular post-transcriptional upregulation of endogenous proteins.
- This system offers a potent and reversible therapeutic strategy without genomic modification.
- ETTAS shows promise for cancer therapy by selectively upregulating target proteins and inhibiting tumor growth.
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