Advances in Aptamer Diagnostics Targeting Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biotechnology
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide.
• Early diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapy are critical for effective NSCLC management.
• Aptamers, selected via SELEX, offer high affinity and specificity for molecular targets.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on DNA and RNA aptamer-based molecules for NSCLC diagnosis.
• To summarize promising aptamer applications in NSCLC management.
• To assess the potential of aptamers in improving NSCLC diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies from 2000 onwards.
• Investigation of aptamers selected against NSCLC biomarkers.
• Analysis of aptamer-based diagnostic and imaging applications in NSCLC.

Main Results:

• Several DNA and RNA aptamers have been identified as promising tools for NSCLC diagnosis.
• Aptamers demonstrate potential for specific imaging agents to enhance NSCLC diagnosis.
• Preclinical studies show promising results for aptamer application in NSCLC.

Conclusions:

• Aptamers offer advantages such as ease of modification, lack of immunogenicity, and toxicity.
• Despite current limitations, aptamers are poised for increasing application in NSCLC diagnosis and management.
• Further research and overcoming challenges like target identification will facilitate clinical translation of aptamers for NSCLC.