Description: Aptamers are short RNA or DNA molecules that can bind to specific targets, such as proteins, small molecules, or even cells. These molecules are characterized by their high affinity and specificity for their targets, making them valuable tools in various biological and biomedical applications. Unlike antibodies, aptamers can be designed and selected through a process known as SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment), allowing for greater flexibility in their development. Additionally, aptamers are stable, easy to synthesize, and can be chemically modified to enhance their performance. Their ability to adopt various three-dimensional conformations allows them to interact with their targets similarly to antibodies, but with the advantage of not relying on biological production, facilitating their use in research and diagnostics. In summary, aptamers are versatile tools in biotechnology, with significant potential to revolutionize disease diagnosis and treatment.
History: The concept of aptamers was introduced in 1990 by Larry Gold’s research group, who developed the SELEX technique to select these molecules from nucleic acid libraries. Since then, research on aptamers has grown exponentially, exploring their potential in various fields, from biomedicine to environmental contaminant detection.
Uses: Aptamers are used in a variety of applications, including medical diagnostics, targeted therapies, and as research tools in molecular biology. Their ability to specifically bind to biomarkers allows their use in disease detection tests, while their stability and ease of modification make them attractive for drug development.
Examples: A practical example of aptamer use is their application in diagnostic tests for detecting the hepatitis C virus, where they are used to identify the presence of the virus in blood samples. Another example is the use of aptamers in cancer therapies, where they target specific tumor cells to release therapeutic agents.
