Articles tagged with Aptamers
Researchers at Kyoto University discovered an RNA aptamer, 1R6, that targets the disordered regions of alpha-synuclein protein, inhibiting its aggregation and promoting disassembly of pre-existing aggregates. This finding offers a new therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson's disease.
A team of scientists has developed a new technology that significantly shortens the development process of aptamers, synthetic alternatives to antibodies. By screening for 'aptamer families' and identifying the best-performing member, researchers can reduce development time from several months to only a few days.
A novel DNA aptamer, NP14, targets the N-terminal domain of the SARS-CoV-2 N protein for highly sensitive and mutation-resistant viral detection. A dual-mode biosensing platform combines visual and quantitative readouts to achieve ultrasensitive and reliable diagnosis.
A new review highlights major advances in aptamer-based biosensors for viral detection, offering faster, cheaper and more portable testing. These biosensors use short DNA or RNA strands called aptamers that bind to viruses with high precision.
Researchers developed SPARK-seq to map aptamer-target interactions in native cellular contexts, identifying binders for low-abundance targets. The platform preferentially enriches slow-dissociating aptamers, vital for diagnostics and therapy.
Researchers have developed a new aptamer called Golden Broccoli that can detect glycine levels in living cells with high accuracy. The sensor uses a single dye and can be used to image glycine dynamics inside cells at single-cell resolution.
Researchers at EPFL have created ultra-selective aptamers that target specific binding sites on viral spike proteins with unprecedented precision. These multivalent binders show stronger and more selective binding affinities than traditional monovalent binders, making them promising for biomedical diagnostics and therapeutics.
Researchers have developed drug-delivering aptamers that target and kill leukemia stem cells, reducing the need for high doses of chemotherapy. The aptamers pair well with existing drugs like daunorubicin to deliver a targeted one-two knockout punch against cancer.
A new biosensor can detect airborne H5N1 avian influenza virus in under 5 minutes, providing real-time monitoring for dairy and poultry farms. The sensor uses electrochemical capacitive biosensors to improve detection speed and sensitivity.
Researchers at U of T have developed a new platform called smol-seq that uses DNA sequencing to detect metabolites. This method enables the analysis of hundreds of metabolites simultaneously, making it faster and more precise than current methods.
A new study uses machine learning to predict high-affinity modification strategies for aptamers, leading to a 105-fold increase in binding affinity compared to unmodified aptamers. The approach demonstrates promising potential for improving pharmaceutical and biosensing applications.
A research team developed an RNA-based sensor platform that can regulate gene expression in bacteria, mimicking natural biological interactions. The START platform enables tunable control over sensor response and detection of various molecules, including drugs and proteins.
Researchers developed DNA aptamer iSN04 to target vascular smooth muscle cells, reducing plaque formation and promoting stability. The study showed that iSN04 can effectively enter VSMCs without carriers, inducing differentiation and inhibiting angiogenesis.
Researchers developed DNA aptamers of melanopsin to regulate mammalian circadian rhythms. Four Melapts induced a phase advance and seven caused a delay in the biological clocks of cells and mice. The aptamers may have potential therapeutic applications by manipulating melanopsin's input signals to the central clock.
Aptamers are being investigated as anticancer drugs and used for targeting therapeutic agents to cancer cells, as well as for detection and imaging of cancer. Recent studies have discussed standard methods for producing aptamers and their potential applications in diagnostics.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed highly accurate DNA aptamers for detecting cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl. The sensors can detect trace amounts of these drugs, even when mixed with other substances, offering a significant improvement over existing tests.
Researchers developed protein-based microcapsules to enhance aptamer sensors, enabling direct detection of target molecules in biological samples. The system demonstrates robust protection against harmful proteins and simultaneous real-time sensing of multiple targets.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology discovered a breakthrough approach to stabilize aptamers using ionic liquids. The team found that these liquid-based environments can shield nucleic acids from enzymes, preserving their functions up to 6.5 million times longer than conventional methods.
Researchers developed a novel method to find high-affinity aptamers, short DNA or RNA molecules that can bond to specific target molecules. The 'hydrogel for aptamer selection' (HAS) method uses a porous polymer network to retain well-fitting aptamers, reducing the time and effort required to identify suitable candidates.
Researchers discovered an anti-nucleolin DNA aptamer that modulates gene expression and nucleolin localization to determine a cell's lineage during differentiation. The study shows promise as a regenerative therapy for cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers have developed a wearable sensor patch capable of continuously monitoring vancomycin levels, a critical antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections. The sensor system detects changes in vancomycin concentration using aptamers and gold wires, providing real-time measurements for effective treatment.
Researchers developed a new strategy for T-cell-based immunotherapy using aptamers, which directly activates immune cells against cancer cells without genetic modifications. The innovative regulatory circuit establishes an artificial interaction between T cells and cancer cells.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new method using nanopores to advance discoveries in neuroscience and medical applications. The technique allows for real-time detection of dynamic aptamer-small molecule interactions, which can aid in understanding DNA and RNA diseases and drug discovery.
Researchers developed a neural device that detects specific neurotransmitters in the brain, enabling new brain research methods for prevention and treatment of diseases. The device combines multifunctional fibers and DNA molecular probes, providing high sensitivity and selectivity.
Scientists have developed a face mask that can detect common respiratory viruses in the air, alerting wearers via mobile devices within 10 minutes. The mask uses aptamers to identify unique proteins on viral surface proteins, amplifying signals to detect even trace levels of pathogens.
A team of researchers has designed in silico molecular probes to track the progress of a misbehaving protein linked to neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and FTD. The probes can detect TDP-43 aggregates at high resolution, paving the way for early diagnosis.
A covalent DNA aptamer has been developed to overcome limitations of traditional aptamers in drug use. The semi-permanent inhibition by the aptamer may lead to unexpected side effects or a too-strong medicinal effect.
A UNC Charlotte-led team has invented a new biomolecular anticoagulant platform that holds promise as a revolutionary advancement over current blood thinners. The technology uses programmable RNA-DNA fibers to prevent blood clotting as needed, then be swiftly eliminated from the body.
A new type of RNA structure targeting tool has been developed to specifically recognise unusual four-strand RNA structures associated with diseases such as cancer and neurological disorders. The L-RNA aptamer-based rG4 targeting approach shows promise for developing new therapeutic tools.
A University of Houston researcher has identified potential biomarkers for neuropsychiatric symptoms of lupus, which include CSF Lipocalin-2, M-CSF, IgM, and complement C3. Elevated levels of these proteins in cerebrospinal fluid may indicate a diagnosis of NPSLE.
A new aptasensor has been designed to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus in saliva samples, offering higher sensitivity than antigen-based sensors. The sensor can detect concentrations as low as 0.5 nanomolars and works quickly and cheaply.
A research team at Aarhus University has developed an RNA aptamer that attaches to the surface of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, preventing it from entering human cells. This molecule is cheaper and easier to manufacture than current antibodies, making it a promising tool for detecting covid-19 infection.
Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites of fungi that contaminate agricultural products, posing severe health risks. Aptasensors utilize aptamers to specifically detect mycotoxins with high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for fast and reliable detection in field settings.
A team of researchers discovered that G-quadruplex (G4)-forming DNA binds myoglobin through a parallel-type G4 structure, increasing its enzymatic activity over 300-fold. The study suggests that DNA may work as a regulator of protein functions in cells.
A novel optical switch enables precise control over the lifespan of genetic copies by attaching aptamers to molecular markers. This method can be used to specifically switch off practically every mRNA molecule in a cell in a controlled manner, opening up new avenues for investigating dynamic processes in living cells.
Researchers at OIST and Osaka University develop an artificial cell system that interacts with histamine, a natural chemical compound. The system uses a riboswitch to turn on a gene inside the cells, which can eventually be used to release drugs in response to histamine signals.
Researchers have developed DNA nanorobots that recognize and bind to HER2 on breast cancer cells, targeting them for destruction. The nanorobots, consisting of a tetrahedral framework nucleic acid with an attached aptamer, persist in the bloodstream longer than free aptamers and selectively kill only HER2-positive cell lines.
Researchers optimized a 20-nucleotide DNA aptamer to improve its binding properties to myelin, a promising lead molecule for multiple sclerosis therapy. The study provides the first evidence of cross-reactivity with human brain cells.
Scientists at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have created novel DNA aptamers that enable the use of smaller fluorescent labels in super-resolution microscopy. This breakthrough allows for high-resolution imaging of protein networks within individual cells, paving the way for new insights into biological processes.
Scientists have created specialized delivery methods using nucleic acid-based nanostructures to target cancer cells while leaving normal cells intact. The new approach utilizes aptamers to bind to specific receptors on cancer cells, allowing for the targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs.
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology have developed a novel method to detect specific metabolites in microalgae cells. By combining fluorogenic aptamers with femtosecond laser photoporation, scientists can identify efficient cells for metabolic engineering applications.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have developed man-made aptamers that target prostate cancer cells, killing them while leaving healthy tissue unscathed. The findings suggest that these molecules could form the basis of new cancer therapies if further studies bear out.
Researchers from Imperial College London have developed a new detection system that can detect single protein biomarkers directly in human serum, allowing for earlier treatment of diseases. The system uses synthetic DNA molecules to bind to specific target biomarkers and measure changes in electrical current through nanopores.
Researchers designed new therapeutic DNA aptamers with diverse side chains to enhance interaction with targets. The study found that the hydrophobicity of side chains affects clearance from the bloodstream, providing a guide for designing better aptamers.
Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed an RNA aptamer that specifically targets CCL17, blocking its interaction with T cells and dendritic cells. This approach shows promise for treating contact allergies by reducing inflammatory responses in mice.
Researchers at MIT have developed sensors that can detect single protein molecules, enabling the tracking of viral infection, monitoring cellular manufacturing of proteins, and revealing food contamination. The sensors utilize chemically modified carbon nanotubes coated with DNA aptamers, which can bind to specific target proteins.
Researchers have developed a novel delivery strategy using an aptamer to introduce functional microRNAs into cells, targeting breast cancer and blood vessel cells. The therapy shows anti-cancer and angiogenic activities, inhibiting tumor growth and protecting against atherosclerosis.
Scientists at Aarhus University have discovered the three-dimensional structure of a Spiegelmer, a mirror-image molecule that can escape degradation and detection by the immune system. This breakthrough has enabled the development of a new class of oligonucleotide aptamers with potential therapeutic applications for treating diseases.
Researchers from Universities of Hamburg and Aarhus decode molecular structure of two promising drug candidates from Spiegelmers for the first time. The results provide a deeper understanding of the mode of action of these substances that have already entered clinical trials.
Researchers at University of British Columbia developed a new technology called Hi-Fi SELEX to accelerate and improve aptamer selection. The platform enhances diversity and enables high-fidelity amplification of therapeutically useful reagents.
Researchers have designed RNA aptamers that specifically target and inhibit PAI-1's anti-clot-busting activity. These aptamers demonstrate the potential for blocking PAI-1-associated vascular events, offering a novel therapeutic option for cardiovascular disease prevention.
Researchers have developed a natural polysaccharide-based delivery system that enhances the targeting of DNA aptamers to vimentin in tumor cells, leading to increased cell death. The study uses arabinogalactan from the larch tree as a carrier and shows improved efficacy when combined with the aptamer drug.
Researchers have developed a new agent that targets the NS5B replicase protein, disabling HCV replication and evading resistance. The aptamers inhibited diverse genotypes of HCV without causing toxicity or immune response.
Scientists at the University of Leeds have discovered a molecule that targets and destroys a key protein associated with the development of cervical and other cancers. The RNA aptamer latches onto the carcinogenic protein, significantly reducing its presence in cells in laboratory-derived cervical cancer cells.
A novel aptamer has been developed that specifically targets and stimulates human immune cells, significantly increasing the effectiveness of immunotherapeutic drugs. The aptamer enhances the ability of activated T cells to proliferate and produce immunostimulatory cytokines.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have successfully used aptamers to stimulate regeneration and repair of nerve coatings in mice with multiple sclerosis. The finding suggests new possible therapies for MS patients, providing hope for a potential cure or treatment.
The researchers have developed a highly efficient system to generate nucleic acid molecules, called aptamers, for next-generation disease diagnosis and testing. The Quantitative Parallel Aptamer Selection System (QPASS) aims to make devices like instant diagnosis machines ready for widespread clinical use.
A new sensor technology has been developed to detect specific proteins in human blood, promising faster and more affordable diagnostics for diseases such as cancer and diabetes. The sensor uses aptamers, custom-made molecules that can latch onto target compounds with high specificity and accuracy.
Deakin University scientists develop RNA aptamer, a chemical antibody that targets cancer stem cells, aiming to deliver drugs directly to them. The aptamer has potential to revolutionize cancer detection and treatment with early-stage diagnosis and targeted therapy.
Researchers have developed an aptamer that blocks P-selectin receptors, reducing adhesion of sickle-shaped red blood cells and white blood cells. The compound may prevent debilitating pain crises and associated mortality in sickle cell disease, offering a potential new therapy for patients.