Nucleic Acid Selection and the Challenge of Combinatorial Chemistry

Spectroscopic and viscometric elucidation of the interaction between a potential chloride channel blocker and calf-thymus DNA: the effect of medium ionic strength on the binding mode

The present study demonstrates a detailed characterization of the binding interaction of a potential chloride channel blocker 9-methyl anthroate (9-MA) with calf-thymus DNA. The modulated photophysical properties of the emissive molecule within the microheterogeneous bio-assembly have been spectroscopically exploited to monitor the drug-DNA binding interaction. Experimental results based on fluorescence and absorption spectroscopy aided with DNA-melting, viscometric and circular dichroism studies unambiguously establish the binding mode between the drug and DNA to be principally intercalative. Concomitantly, a discernible dependence of the mode of binding between the concerned moieties on the ionic strength of the medium is noteworthy. A dip-and-rise characteristic of the rotational relaxation profile of the drug within the DNA environment has been argued to be originating from a substantial difference in the lifetime as well as amplitude of the free and DNA bound drug molecule. In view of the prospective biological applications of the drug, the issue of facile dissociation of the intercalated drug from the DNA helix via a simple detergent-sequestration technique has also been unveiled. The utility of the present work resides in exploring the potential applicability of the fluorescence properties of 9-MA for studying its interactions with other relevant biological or biomimicking targets.

Aptamer-based biosensors for biomedical diagnostics

Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acids that selectively bind to target molecules. Most aptamers are obtained through a combinatorial biology technique called SELEX. Since aptamers can be isolated to bind to almost any molecule of choice, can be readily modified at arbitrary positions and they possess predictable secondary structures, this platform technology shows great promise in biosensor development. Over the past two decades, more than one thousand papers have been published on aptamer-based biosensors. Given this progress, the application of aptamer technology in biomedical diagnosis is still in a quite preliminary stage. Most previous work involves only a few model aptamers to demonstrate the sensing concept with limited biomedical impact. This Critical Review aims to summarize progress that might enable practical applications of aptamers for biological samples. First, general sensing strategies based on the unique properties of aptamers are summarized. Each strategy can be coupled to various signaling methods. Among these, a few detection methods including fluorescence lifetime, flow cytometry, upconverting nanoparticles, nanoflare technology, magnetic resonance imaging, electronic aptamer-based sensors, and lateral flow devices have been discussed in more detail since they are more likely to work in a complex sample matrix. The current limitations of this field include the lack of high quality aptamers for clinically important targets. In addition, the aptamer technology has to be extensively tested in a clinical sample matrix to establish reliability and accuracy. Future directions are also speculated to overcome these challenges.

Reversible regulation of thrombin adsorption and desorption based on photoresponsive-aptamer modified gold nanoparticles

In the protein separation, adsorption and desorption of target protein have been using different buffer condition. Different buffer will change the structure and activity of target protein in some cases. This work describes the use of different wavelength light for remote regulation of adsorption and desorption of target protein in the same buffer solutions. A dynamic system that captured and released protein in response to light is reported. Matrix gold nanoparticles and light-responsive affinity ligand comprising thrombin aptamer (APT15), polyethylene glycol linker, and azobenzene-modified complementary sequence were used. UV light induced a trans-cis isomerization of the azobenzene that destabilized the duplex of aptamer and azobenzene-modified complementary sequence, resulting in thrombin binding to aptamer sequence. Visible light irradiation resulted in DNA duplex rehybridization and thrombin released. Our work demonstrates that different light wavelengths effectively regulated the adsorption and desorption of thrombin in the same buffer, and this system also can capture and release prothrombin from plasma with different wavelength light. Furthermore, this method can be widely applied to a variety of different protein separation process.

Single-Round Patterned DNA Library Microarray Aptamer Lead Identification

A method for identifying an aptamer in a single round was developed using custom DNA microarrays containing computationally derived patterned libraries incorporating no information on the sequences of previously reported thrombin binding aptamers. The DNA library was specifically designed to increase the probability of binding by enhancing structural complexity in a sequence-space confined environment, much like generating lead compounds in a combinatorial drug screening library. The sequence demonstrating the highest fluorescence intensity upon target addition was confirmed to bind the target molecule thrombin with specificity by surface plasmon resonance, and a novel imino proton NMR/2D NOESY combination was used to screen the structure for G-quartet formation. We propose that the lack of G-quartet structure in microarray-derived aptamers may highlight differences in binding mechanisms between surface-immobilized and solution based strategies. This proof-of-principle study highlights the use of a computational driven methodology to create a DNA library rather than a SELEX based approach. This work is beneficial to the biosensor field where aptamers selected by solution based evolution have proven challenging to retain binding function when immobilized on a surface.

DNA-based machines

The base sequence in nucleic acids encodes substantial structural and functional information into the biopolymer. This encoded information provides the basis for the tailoring and assembly of DNA machines. A DNA machine is defined as a molecular device that exhibits the following fundamental features. (1) It performs a fuel-driven mechanical process that mimics macroscopic machines. (2) The mechanical process requires an energy input, "fuel." (3) The mechanical operation is accompanied by an energy consumption process that leads to "waste products." (4) The cyclic operation of the DNA devices, involves the use of "fuel" and "anti-fuel" ingredients. A variety of DNA-based machines are described, including the construction of "tweezers," "walkers," "robots," "cranes," "transporters," "springs," "gears," and interlocked cyclic DNA structures acting as reconfigurable catenanes, rotaxanes, and rotors. Different "fuels", such as nucleic acid strands, pH (H⁺/OH⁻), metal ions, and light, are used to trigger the mechanical functions of the DNA devices. The operation of the devices in solution and on surfaces is described, and a variety of optical, electrical, and photoelectrochemical methods to follow the operations of the DNA machines are presented. We further address the possible applications of DNA machines and the future perspectives of molecular DNA devices. These include the application of DNA machines as functional structures for the construction of logic gates and computing, for the programmed organization of metallic nanoparticle structures and the control of plasmonic properties, and for controlling chemical transformations by DNA machines. We further discuss the future applications of DNA machines for intracellular sensing, controlling intracellular metabolic pathways, and the use of the functional nanostructures for drug delivery and medical applications.

Exploration of the binding interaction of a potential nervous system stimulant with calf-thymus DNA and dissociation of the drug–DNA complex by detergent sequestration

The binding interaction of a potential nervous system stimulant with calf-thymus DNA has been divulged and dissociation of the drug–DNA complex has been achieved by the detergent sequestration method.

Activation of Mg2+-dependent DNAzymes based on AP site-containing triplex for specific melamine recognition

A novel strategy for melamine recognition based on melamine binding-triggered triplex formation and DNAzyme activity regulation was developed.

An exonuclease-assisted amplification electrochemical aptasensor of thrombin coupling "signal on/off" strategy

In this work, a dual-signaling electrochemical aptasensor based on exonuclease-catalyzed target recycling was developed for thrombin detection. The proposed aptasensor coupled "signal-on" and "signal-off" strategies. As to the construction of the aptasensor, ferrocene (Fc) labeled thrombin binding aptamer (TBA) could perfectly hybridize with the methylene blue (MB) modified thiolated capture DNA to form double-stranded structure, hence emerged two different electrochemical signals. In the presence of thrombin, TBA could form a G-quadruplex structure with thrombin, leading to the dissociation of TBA from the duplex DNA and capture DNA formed hairpin structure. Exonuclease could selectively digest single-stranded TBA in G-quadruplex structure and released thrombin to realize target recycling. As a consequence, the electrochemical signal of MB enhanced significantly, which realized "signal on" strategy, meanwhile, the deoxidization peak current of Fc decreased distinctly, which realized "signal off" strategy. The employment of exonuclease and superposition of two signals significantly improved the sensitivity of the aptasensor. In this way, an aptasensor with high sensitivity, good stability and selectivity for quantitative detection of thrombin was constructed, which exhibited a good linear range from 5 pM to 50 nM with a detection limit of 0.9 pM (defined as S/N=3). In addition, this design strategy could be applied to the detection of other proteins and small molecules.

Inhibition of the foot-and-mouth disease virus subgenomic replicon by RNA aptamers

We have previously documented the inhibitory activity of RNA aptamers to the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase of foot-and-mouth disease virus (3D(pol)). Here we report their modification and use with a subgenomic replicon incorporating GFP (pGFP-PAC replicon), allowing replication to be monitored and quantified in real-time. GFP expression in transfected BHK-21 cells reached a maximum at approximately 8 h post-transfection, at which time change in morphology of the cells was consistent with a virus-induced cytopathic effect. However, transfection of replicon-bearing cells with a 3D(pol) aptamer RNA resulted in inhibition of GFP expression and maintenance of normal cell morphology, whereas a control aptamer RNA had little effect. The inhibition was correlated with a reduction in 3D(pol) (detected by immunoblotting) and shown to be dose dependent. The 3D(pol) aptamers appeared to be more effective than 2'-C-methylcytidine (2'CMC). Aptamers to components of the replication complex are therefore useful molecular tools for studying viral replication and also have potential as diagnostic molecules in the future.

Aptamer-based technology for food analysis

Aptamers are short and functional single-stranded oligonucleotide sequences selected from systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) process, which have the capacity to recognize various classes of target molecules with high affinity and specificity. Various analytical aptamers acquired by SELEX are widely used in many research fields, such as medicine, biology, and chemistry. However, the application of this innovative and emerging technology to food safety is just in infant stage. Food safety plays a very important role in our daily lives because varieties of poisonous and harmful substances in food affect human health. Aptamer technique is promising, which can overcome many disadvantages of existing detection methods in food safety, such as long detection time, low sensitivity, difficult, and expensive antibody preparation. This review provides an overview of various aptamer screening technologies and summarizes the recent applications of aptamers in food safety, and future prospects are also discussed.

Computational design of RNA libraries for in vitro selection of aptamers

Selection of aptamers that bind a specific ligand usually begins with a random library of RNA sequences, and many aptamers selected from such random pools have a simple stem-loop structure. We present here a computational approach for designing a starting library of RNA sequences with increased formation of complex structural motifs and enhanced affinity to a desired target molecule. Our approach consists of two steps: (1) generation of RNA sequences based on customized patterning of nucleotides with increased probability of forming a base pair and (2) a high-throughput virtual screening of the generated library to select aptamers with binding affinity to a small-molecule target. We developed a set of criteria that allows one to select a sequence with potential binding affinity from a pool of random sequences and designed a protocol for RNA 3D structure prediction. The proposed approach significantly reduces the RNA sequence search space, thus accelerating the experimental screening and selection of high-affinity aptamers.

The expanding view of RNA and DNA function

RNA and DNA are simple linear polymers consisting of only four major types of subunits, and yet these molecules carry out a remarkable diversity of functions in cells and in the laboratory. Each newly discovered function of natural or engineered nucleic acids enforces the view that prior assessments of nucleic acid function were far too narrow and that many more exciting findings are yet to come. This Perspective highlights just a few of the numerous discoveries over the past 20 years pertaining to nucleic acid function, focusing on those that have been of particular interest to chemical biologists. History suggests that there will continue to be many opportunities to engage chemical biologists in the discovery, creation, and manipulation of nucleic acid function in the years to come.

Fluorescent RNA labeling using self-alkylating ribozymes

The ability to fluorescently label specific RNA sequences is of significant utility for both in vitro and live cell applications. Currently, most RNA labeling methods utilize RNA-nucleic acid or RNA-protein molecular recognition. However, in the search for improved RNA labeling methods, harnessing the small-molecule recognition capabilities of RNA is rapidly emerging as a promising alternative. Along these lines, we propose a novel strategy in which a ribozyme acts to promote self-alkylation with a fluorophore, providing a robust, covalent linkage between the RNA and the fluorophore. Here we describe the selection and characterization of ribozymes that promote self-labeling with fluorescein iodoacetamide (FIA). Kinetic studies reveal a second-order rate constant that is on par with those of other reactions used for biomolecular labeling. Additionally, we demonstrate that labeling is specific to the ribozyme sequences, as FIA does not react nonspecifically with RNA.

An L-DNA G-quadruplex: application for peroxidase DNAzyme

L-DNA is the mirror-image form of natural D-DNA. We demonstrate that one left-handed G-rich sequence can form an L-DNA intramolecular G-quadruplex. Further investigation revealed that a DNAzyme formed by an L-nucleotide G-quadruplex exhibited peroxidase catalytic efficiency. The enhancement of the color change of the oxygenation product ABTS(•-) caused by L-nucleotide G-quadruplex formation could be clearly observed with naked eyes. This research provides a new concept for the application of the L-DNA peroxidase DNAzyme complex in nuclease-containing biological systems.

Exercises in molecular computing

The successes of electronic digital logic have transformed every aspect of human life over the last half-century. The word “computer” now signifies a ubiquitous electronic device, rather than a human occupation. Yet evidently humans, large assemblies of molecules, can compute, and it has been a thrilling challenge to develop smaller, simpler, synthetic assemblies of molecules that can do useful computation. When we say that molecules compute, what we usually mean is that such molecules respond to certain inputs, for example, the presence or absence of other molecules, in a precisely defined but potentially complex fashion. The simplest way for a chemist to think about computing molecules is as sensors that can integrate the presence or absence of multiple analytes into a change in a single reporting property. Here we review several forms of molecular computing developed in our laboratories.

When we began our work, combinatorial approaches to using DNA for computing were used to search for solutions to constraint satisfaction problems. We chose to work instead on logic circuits, building bottom-up from units based on catalytic nucleic acids, focusing on DNA secondary structures in the design of individual circuit elements, and reserving the combinatorial opportunities of DNA for the representation of multiple signals propagating in a large circuit. Such circuit design directly corresponds to the intuition about sensors transforming the detection of analytes into reporting properties. While this approach was unusual at the time, it has been adopted since by other groups working on biomolecular computing with different nucleic acid chemistries.

We created logic gates by modularly combining deoxyribozymes (DNA-based enzymes cleaving or combining other oligonucleotides), in the role of reporting elements, with stem–loops as input detection elements. For instance, a deoxyribozyme that normally exhibits an oligonucleotide substrate recognition region is modified such that a stem–loop closes onto the substrate recognition region, making it unavailable for the substrate and thus rendering the deoxyribozyme inactive. But a conformational change can then be induced by an input oligonucleotide, complementary to the loop, to open the stem, allow the substrate to bind, and allow its cleavage to proceed, which is eventually reported via fluorescence. In this Account, several designs of this form are reviewed, along with their application in the construction of large circuits that exhibited complex logical and temporal relationships between the inputs and the outputs.

Intelligent (in the sense of being capable of nontrivial information processing) theranostic (therapy + diagnostic) applications have always been the ultimate motivation for developing computing (i.e., decision-making) circuits, and we review our experiments with logic-gate elements bound to cell surfaces that evaluate the proximal presence of multiple markers on lymphocytes.

In vitro selection of BNA (LNA) aptamers

Recently, we achieved the first in vitro selection of 2'-O,4'-C-methylene bridged/locked nucleic acid (2',4'-BNA/LNA) aptamers. High-affinity thrombin-binding aptamers (TBAs) were obtained from DNA-based libraries containing 2'-O,4'-C-methylene-bridged/linked bicyclic ribonucleotides (B/L nucleotides) in the 5'-primer region, using the method of capillary electrophoresis systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (CE-SELEX). Furthermore, a similar selection protocol could provide TBAs that contain B/L nucleotides in both primer and random regions. We review technical challenges involved in the generation of various BNA libraries using analogs of B/L nucleoside-5'-triphosphate and polymerase variants and also discuss applications of these libraries to the selection of BNA (LNA) aptamers, as well as future prospects for their therapeutic and diagnostic uses.

An off-on-off electrochemiluminescence approach for ultrasensitive detection of thrombin

This work demonstrates an aptasensor for ultrasensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection of thrombin based on an "off-on-off" approach. The system is composed of an Eu(3+)-doped CdS nanocrystals (CdS:Eu NCs) film on glassy carbon electrode (GCE) as ECL emitter. Then gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) labeled hairpin-DNA probe (ssDNA1) containing thrombin-binding aptamer (TBA) sequence was linked on the NCs film, which led to ECL quenching (off) as a result of Förster-resonance energy transfer (FRET) between the CdS:Eu NC film and the proximal AuNPs. Upon the occurrence of hybridization with its complementary DNA (ssDNA2), an ECL enhancement (on) occurred owing to the interactions of the excited CdS:Eu NCs with ECL-induced surface plasmon resonance (SPR) in AuNPs at large separation. Thrombin could induce ssDNA1 forming a G-quadruplex and cause the AuNPs to be close to CdS:Eu NCs film again, which resulted in an enhanced ECL quenching (off). This "off-on-off" system showed a maximum 7.4-fold change of ECL intensity due to the configuration transformation of ssDNA1 and provides great sensitivity for detection of thrombin in a wide detection range from 50 aM to 1 pM.

A simple, fast, and sensitive assay for the detection of DNA, thrombin, and adenosine triphosphate based on Dual-Hairpin DNA structure

In the present study, based on multifunctional Dual-Hairpin DNA structure, a simple, fast and high sensitive assay for the detection of DNA, thrombin and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) was demonstrated. DNA sequence labeled with methylene blue (MB), which was designed as single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) matching with target DNA, thrombin, or ATP aptamer, hybridized to the adjunct probe and formed the dual-hairpin structure on the electrode. With the hybridization of adjunct probe and the hairpin-like capture probe in the stem region, the dual-hairpin was formed with outer and inner hairpins. By the conjugation of the target probe with the adjunct probe in the outer hairpin, the adjunct probe divorced from the dual-hairpin structure. The adjunct probe with signal molecules MB, attaching near or divorcing far from the electrode, produced electrochemical signal change and efficient electron transfer due to the fact that it was in proximity to the electrode. However, upon hybridization with the perfect match target, the redox label with the target probe was forced away from the modified electrode, thus resulting in the change of the Dual-Hairpin DNA conformation, which enables impedance of the efficient electron transfer of MB and, consequently, a detectable change of the electrochemical response. In addition, another highlight of this biosensor is its regenerability and stability owing to the merits of structure. Also, based on this Dual-Hairpin platform, the detection limits of DNA, thrombin, and ATP were 50 nM, 3 pM, and 30 nM, respectively. Moreover, this pattern also demonstrated excellent regenerability, reproducibility, and stability. Additionally, given to its ease-of-use, simplicity in design, easy operations, as well as regenerability and stability, the proposed approach may be applied as an excellent design prompter in the preparation of other molecular sensors.

Highly sensitive fluorescent immunoassay of human immunoglobulin G based on PbS nanoparticles and DNAzyme

This paper reports a highly sensitive fluorescent immunoassay for the detection of human immunoglobulin G based on PbS nanoparticles and DNAzyme. A sandwich immunoassay format was performed on a microtiter plate. Goat anti-human IgG was coated onto the polystyrene microtiter plate. The human IgG analyte was first captured by the goat anti-human IgG, and then sandwiched by a goat anti-human IgG antibody labeled with PbS nanoparticles. After being dissolved with HNO3, the released Pb(2+) made the substrate chain of the DNAzyme labeled with the fluorophore dissociate from the enzyme strand of the DNAzyme labeled with the quencher, which resulted in fluorescence recovery. Then, the human IgG could be detected indirectly from the fluorescent signals. Under the optimized conditions, the linear range of the developed immunosensor was from 1 ng mL(-1) to 10 μg mL(-1) with a detection limit of 0.8 ng mL(-1). This immunosensor could be used to detect the amount of human IgG in human serum samples.

Morphology-based plasmonic nanoparticle sensors: controlling etching kinetics with target-responsive permeability gate

We present a sensing platform based on the morphological changes of plasmonic nanoparticles. Detection is achieved by using a stimulus-responsive polyelectrolyte-aptamer thin film to control the rate of diffusion of etchants that alter the shape and size of the nanoparticles. We show that the extent of morphological change and the colorimetric response depends on the amount of analyte bound. Contrary to conventional plasmonic sensors, our detection scheme does not rely on any interparticle interaction and is completely label-free, both in terms of the analyte and the capture probe. It presents new opportunities for designing facile, low-cost, and portable chip-based sensors for biodiagnostic and field analysis.

Selection of 2'F-modified RNA aptamers against prostate-specific antigen and their evaluation for diagnostic and therapeutic applications

Currently, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is considered to be the most sensitive marker available for prostate cancer detection and for monitoring of disease progression. In addition to its importance as a tumor marker, PSA has a role in the biological activity of cancer growth and proliferation. Therefore, the inhibition or activation of its biological activity may be used in prostate cancer therapy. Here, we describe the isolation and characterization of new 2'F-modified RNA aptamers directed against PSA. Binding studies demonstrate the ability of these new aptamers to specifically recognize their target with dissociation constants in the nanomolar range. In order to demonstrate the functionality of the selected aptamers, an apta-PCR approach was used for the quantitative detection of PSA, achieving a limit of detection of 11 nM. Furthermore, the potential use of the selected aptamers in therapeutics was demonstrated with the 2'F-modified aptamers being highly stable in human serum and having the ability to moderate the activity of PSA, which will be explored for the treatment of prostate cancer.

Homogeneous electrochemical aptamer-based ATP assay with signal amplification by exonuclease III assisted target recycling

A novel and homogeneous electrochemical aptamer-based adenosine triphosphate (ATP) assay was demonstrated with signal amplification by exonuclease III-assisted target recycling. A superior detection limit of 1 nM toward ATP with an excellent selectivity could be achieved.

Nano-sized CT contrast agents

Computed tomography (CT) is one of the most widely used clinical imaging modalities. In order to increase the sensitivity of CT, small iodinated compounds are used as injectable contrast agents. However, the iodinated contrast agents are excreted through the kidney and have short circulation times. This rapid renal clearance not only restricts in vivo applications that require long circulation times but also sometimes induces serious adverse effects related to the excretion pathway. In addition, the X-ray attenuation of iodine is not efficient for clinical CT that uses high-energy X-ray. Due to these limitations, nano-sized iodinated CT contrast agents have been developed that can increase the circulation time and decrease the adverse effects. In addition to iodine, nanoparticles based on heavy atoms such as gold, lanthanides, and tantalum are used as more efficient CT contrast agents. In this review, we summarize the recent progresses made in nano-sized CT contrast agents.

Theoretical modeling of masking DNA application in aptamer-facilitated biomarker discovery

In aptamer-facilitated biomarker discovery (AptaBiD), aptamers are selected from a library of random DNA (or RNA) sequences for their ability to specifically bind cell-surface biomarkers. The library is incubated with intact cells, and cell-bound DNA molecules are separated from those unbound and amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The partitioning/amplification cycle is repeated multiple times while alternating target cells and control cells. Efficient aptamer selection in AptaBiD relies on the inclusion of masking DNA within the cell and library mixture. Masking DNA lacks primer regions for PCR amplification and is typically taken in excess to the library. The role of masking DNA within the selection mixture is to outcompete any nonspecific binding sequences within the initial library, thus allowing specific DNA sequences (i.e., aptamers) to be selected more efficiently. Efficient AptaBiD requires an optimum ratio of masking DNA to library DNA, at which aptamers still bind specific binding sites but nonaptamers within the library do not bind nonspecific binding sites. Here, we have developed a mathematical model that describes the binding processes taking place within the equilibrium mixture of masking DNA, library DNA, and target cells. An obtained mathematical solution allows one to estimate the concentration of masking DNA that is required to outcompete the library DNA at a desirable ratio of bound masking DNA to bound library DNA. The required concentration depends on concentrations of the library and cells as well as on unknown cell characteristics. These characteristics include the concentration of total binding sites on the cell surface, N, and equilibrium dissociation constants, K(nsL) and K(nsM), for nonspecific binding of the library DNA and masking DNA, respectively. We developed a theory that allows the determination of N, K(nsL), and K(nsM) based on measurements of EC50 values for cells mixed separately with the library and masking DNA (EC50 is the concentration of fluorescently labeled DNA at which half of the maximum fluorescence signal from DNA-bound cells is reached). We also obtained expressions for signals from bound DNA (measured by flow cytometry) in terms of N, K(nsL), and K(nsM). These expressions can be used for the verification of N, K(nsL), and K(nsM) values found from EC50 measurements. The developed procedure was applied to MCF-7 breast cancer cells, and corresponding values of N, K(nsL), and K(nsM) were established for the first time. The concentration of masking DNA required for AptaBiD with MCF-7 breast cancer cells was also estimated.

Signal-amplification detection of small molecules by use of Mg2+-dependent DNAzyme

Because small molecules can be beneficial or toxic in biology and the environment, specific and sensitive detection of small molecules is one of the most important objectives of the scientific community. In this study, new signal amplification assays for detection of small molecules based on Mg(2+)-dependent DNAzyme were developed. A cleavable DNA substrate containing a ribonucleotide, the ends of which were labeled with black hole quencher (BHQ) and 6-carboxyfluorescein (FAM), was used for fluorescence detection. When the small molecule of interest is added to the assay solution, the Mg(2+)-dependent DNAzyme is activated, facilitating hybridization between the Mg(2+)-dependent DNAzyme and the DNA substrate. Binding of the substrate to the DNAzyme structure results in hydrolytic cleavage of the substrate in the presence of Mg(2+) ions. The fluorescence signal was amplified by continuous cleavage of the enzyme substrate. Ochratoxin A (OTA) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) were used as model analytes in these experiments. This method can detect OTA specifically with a detection limit as low as 140 pmol L(-1) and detect ATP specifically with a detection limit as low as 13 nmol L(-1). Moreover, this method is potentially extendable to detection of other small molecules which are able to dissociate the aptamer from the DNAzyme, leading to activation of the DNAzyme.

Integration of photoswitchable proteins, photosynthetic reaction centers and semiconductor/biomolecule hybrids with electrode supports for optobioelectronic applications

Light-triggered biological processes provide the principles for the development of man-made optobioelectronic systems. This Review addresses three recently developed topics in the area of optobioelectronics, while addressing the potential applications of these systems. The topics discussed include: (i) the reversible photoswitching of the bioelectrocatalytic functions of redox proteins by the modification of proteins with photoisomerizable units or by the integration of proteins with photoisomerizable environments; (ii) the integration of natural photosynthetic reaction centers with electrodes and the construction of photobioelectrochemical cells and photobiofuel cells; and (iii) the synthesis of biomolecule/semiconductor quantum dots hybrid systems and their immobilization on electrodes to yield photobioelectrochemical and photobiofuel cell elements. The fundamental challenge in the tailoring of optobioelectronic systems is the development of means to electrically contact photoactive biomolecular assemblies with the electrode supports. Different methods to establish electrical communication between the photoactive biomolecular assemblies and electrodes are discussed. These include the nanoscale engineering of the biomolecular nanostructures on surfaces, the development of photoactive molecular wires and the coupling of photoinduced electron transfer reactions with the redox functions of proteins. The different possible applications of optobioelectronic systems are discussed, including their use as photosensors, the design of biosensors, and the construction of solar energy conversion and storage systems.

Advances in aptamer screening and small molecule aptasensors

It has been 20 years since aptamer and SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment) were described independently by Andrew Ellington and Larry Gold. Based on the great advantages of aptamers, there have been numerous isolated aptamers for various targets that have actively been applied as therapeutic and analytical tools. Over 2,000 papers related to aptamers or SELEX have been published, attesting to their wide usefulness and the applicability of aptamers. SELEX methods have been modified or re-created over the years to enable aptamer isolation with higher affinity and selectivity in more labor- and time-efficient manners, including automation. Initially, most of the studies about aptamers have focused on the protein targets, which have physiological functions in the body, and their applications as therapeutic agents or receptors for diagnostics. However, aptamers for small molecules such as organic or inorganic compounds, drugs, antibiotics, or metabolites have not been studied sufficiently, despite the ever-increasing need for rapid and simple analytical methods for various chemical targets in the fields of medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, food safety, and national defense against targets including chemical warfare. This review focuses on not only recent advances in aptamer screening methods but also its analytical application for small molecules.

A universal and label-free aptasensor for fluorescent detection of ATP and thrombin based on SYBR Green I dye

A facile and universal aptamer-based label-free approach for selective and sensitive fluorescence detection of proteins and small biomolecules by using the SYBR Green I (SGI) dye is developed. This robust versatile biosensing strategy relies on fluorescence turn-off changes of SGI, resulting from target-induced structure switching of aptamers. Upon binding with the targets, the aptamers dissociate from the respective cDNA/aptamer duplexes, leading to the release of the dsDNA-intercalated SGI into solution and the quenching of the corresponding fluorescence intensities. Such target-induced conformational changes and release of aptamers from the DNA duplexes essentially lead to the change in the fluorescence signal of the SGI and thus constitute the mechanism of our aptamer-based label-free fluorescence biosensor for specific target analyses. Under optimized conditions, our method exhibits high sensitivity and selectivity for the quantification of ATP and thrombin with low detection limits (23.4 nM and 1.1 nM, respectively). Compared with previous reported methods for aptamer-based detection of ATP and thrombin, this label-free approach is selective, simple, convenient and cost-efficient without any chemical labeling of the probe or the target. Therefore, the present strategy could be easily applicable to biosensors that target a wide range of biomolecules.

Electrochemical Techniques as Powerful Readout Methods for Aptamer-based Biosensors

Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acids that can be selected in vitro with special folding structures to bind to many different small-molecule, protein, and cellular targets. Over the past two decades, aptamers have become novel promising recognition elements for the fabrication of biosensors. These ‘aptasensors’ have several advantages over antibodies in that they are relatively easy to synthesise or modify in vitro, and can be appended with linkers and reporters for adaptation to various sensing strategies. In this chapter, we introduce the various electrochemical techniques that can be used as powerful readout methods for aptasensors, providing a brief introduction to aptamers and related electrochemical techniques, and then a detailed description of various branches within the field, including labelled strategies, unlabelled strategies, and enzyme-amplified strategies. For each type of approach, several basic and improved design principles will be addressed. It is hoped that, through this discussion, readers will get a sense of how several variables (aptamers, targets and redox reporters) are successfully combined with electrochemical techniques in order to produce a series of sensing platforms with high selectivity and sensitivity.

Nucleic-Acid-binding chromophores as efficient indicators of aptamer-target interactions

The binding affinity and specificity of nucleic acid aptamers have made them valuable candidates for use as sensors in diagnostic applications. In particular, chromophore-functionalized aptamers offer a relatively simple format for detection and quantification of target molecules. We describe the use of nucleic-acid-staining reagents as an effective tool for detecting and signaling aptamer-target interactions. Aptamers varying in size and structure and targeting a range of molecules have been used in conjunction with commercially available chromophores to indicate and quantify the presence of cognate targets with high sensitivity and selectivity. Our assay precludes the covalent modification of nucleic acids and relies on the differential fluorescence signal of chromophores when complexed with aptamers with or without their cognate target. We also evaluate factors that are critical for the stability of the complex between the aptamer and chromophore in presence or absence of target molecules. Our results indicate the possibility of controlling those factors to enhance the sensitivity of target detection by the aptamers used in such assays.

Selection of DNA aptamers against glioblastoma cells with high affinity and specificity

Background

Glioblastoma is the most common and most lethal form of brain tumor in human. Unfortunately, there is still no effective therapy to this fatal disease and the median survival is generally less than one year from the time of diagnosis. Discovery of ligands that can bind specifically to this type of tumor cells will be of great significance to develop early molecular imaging, targeted delivery and guided surgery methods to battle this type of brain tumor.

Methodology/Principal Findings

We discovered two target-specific aptamers named GBM128 and GBM131 against cultured human glioblastoma cell line U118-MG after 30 rounds selection by a method called cell-based Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment (cell-SELEX). These two aptamers have high affinity and specificity against target glioblastoma cells. They neither recognize normal astraglial cells, nor do they recognize other normal and cancer cell lines tested. Clinical tissues were also tested and the results showed that these two aptamers can bind to different clinical glioma tissues but not normal brain tissues. More importantly, binding affinity and selectivity of these two aptamers were retained in complicated biological environment.

Conclusion/Significance

The selected aptamers could be used to identify specific glioblastoma biomarkers. Methods of molecular imaging, targeted drug delivery, ligand guided surgery can be further developed based on these ligands for early detection, targeted therapy, and guided surgery of glioblastoma leading to effective treatment of glioblastoma.

Strategies for the discovery of therapeutic aptamers

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD

Therapeutic aptamers are synthetic, structured oligonucleotides that bind to a very broad range of targets with high affinity and specificity. They are an emerging class of targeting ligand that show great promise for treating a number of diseases. A series of aptamers currently in various stages of clinical development highlights the potential of aptamers for therapeutic applications.

AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW

This review covers in vitro selection of oligonucleotide ligands, called aptamers, from a combinatorial library using the Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment process as well as the other known strategies for finding aptamers against various targets.

WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN

Readers will gain an understanding of the highly useful strategies for successful aptamer discovery. They may also be able to combine two or more of the presented strategies for their aptamer discovery projects.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

Although many processes are available for discovering aptamers, it is not easy to discover an aptamer candidate that is ready to move toward pharmaceutical drug development. It is also apparent that there have been relatively few therapeutic advances and clinical trials undertaken due to the small number of companies that participate in aptamer development.

General colorimetric detection of proteins and small molecules based on cyclic enzymatic signal amplification and hairpin aptamer probe

In this work, we developed a simple and general method for highly sensitive detection of proteins and small molecules based on cyclic enzymatic signal amplification (CESA) and hairpin aptamer probe. Our detection system consists of a hairpin aptamer probe, a linker DNA, two sets of DNA-modified AuNPs, and nicking endonuclease (NEase). In the absence of a target, the hairpin aptamer probe and linker DNA can stably coexist in solution. Then, the linker DNA can assemble two sets of DNA-modified AuNPs, inducing the aggregation of AuNPs. However, in the presence of a target, the hairpin structure of aptamer probe is opened upon interaction with the target to form an aptamer probe-target complex. Then, the probe-target complex can hybridize to the linker DNA. Upon formation of the duplex, the NEase recognizes specific nucleotide sequence and cleaves the linker DNA into two fragments. After nicking, the released probe-target complex can hybridize with another intact linker DNA and the cycle starts anew. The cleaved fragments of linker DNA are not able to assemble two sets of DNA-modified AuNPs, thus a red color of separated AuNPs can be observed. Taking advantage of the AuNPs-based sensing technique, we are able to assay the target simply by UV-vis spectroscopy and even by the naked eye. Herein, we can detect the human thrombin with a detection limit of 50 pM and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) with a detection limit of 100 nM by the naked eye. This sensitivity is about 3 orders of magnitude higher than that of traditional AuNPs-based methods without amplification. In addition, this method is general since there is no requirement of the NEase recognition site in the aptamer sequence. Furthermore, we proved that the proposed method is capable of detecting the target in complicated biological samples.

Graphene oxide based fluorescent aptasensor for adenosine deaminase detection using adenosine as the substrate

We present a novel fluorescent aptasensor for simple and accurate detection of adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity and inhibition on the basis of graphene oxide (GO) using adenosine (AD) as the substrate. This aptasensor consists of a dye-labeled single-stranded AD specific aptamer, GO and AD. The fluorescence intensity of the dye-labeled AD specific aptamer is quenched very efficiently by GO as a result of strong π-π stacking interaction and excellent electronic transference of GO. In the presence of AD, the fluorescence of the GO-based probe is recovered since the competitive binding of AD and GO with the dye-labeled aptamer prevents the adsorption of dye-labeled aptamer on GO. When ADA was introduced to this GO-based probe solution, the fluorescence of the probe was quenched owing to ADA can convert AD into inosine which has no affinity to the dye-labeled aptamer, thus allowing quantitative investigation of ADA activity. The as-proposed sensor is highly selective and sensitive for the assay of ADA activity with a detection limit of 0.0129U/mL in clean buffer, which is more than one order of magnitude lower than the previous reports. Meanwhile, a good linear relationship with the correlation coefficient of R=0.9922 was obtained by testing 5% human serum containing a series of concentrations of ADA. Additionally, the inhibition effect of erythro-9-(2-hydroxy-3-nonyl) adenine on ADA activity was investigated in this design. The GO-based fluorescence aptasensor not only provides a simple, cost-effective and sensitive platform for the detection of ADA and its inhibitor but also shows great potential in the diagnosis of ADA-relevant diseases and drug development.

Quantitation of femtomolar protein levels via direct readout with the electrochemical proximity assay

We have developed a separation-free, electrochemical assay format with direct readout that is amenable to highly sensitive and selective quantitation of a wide variety of target proteins. Our first generation of the electrochemical proximity assay (ECPA) is composed of two thrombin aptamers which form a cooperative complex only in the presence of target molecules, moving a methylene blue (MB)-conjugated oligonucleotide close to a gold electrode. Without washing steps, electrical current is increased in proportion to the concentration of a specific target protein. By employing a DNA-based experimental model with the aptamer system, we show that addition of a short DNA competitor can reduce background current of the MB peak to baseline levels. As such, the detection limit of aptamer-based ECPA for human thrombin was 50 pM via direct readout. The dual-probe nature of ECPA gave high selectivity and 93% recovery of signal from 2.5 nM thrombin in 2% bovine serum albumin (BSA). To greatly improve the flexibility of ECPA, we then proved the system functional with antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates as probes; the insulin detection limit was 128 fM with a dynamic range of over 4 orders of magnitude in concentration, again with high assay selectivity. ECPA thus allows separation-free, highly sensitive, and highly selective protein detection with a direct electrochemical readout. This method is extremely flexible, capable of detecting a wide variety of protein targets, and is amenable to point-of-care protein measurement, since any target with two aptamers or antibodies could be assayed via direct electrochemical readout.

Use of cell-SELEX to generate DNA aptamers as molecular probes of HPV-associated cervical cancer cells

Background

Disease-specific biomarkers are an important tool for the timely and effective management of pathological conditions, including determination of susceptibility, diagnosis, and monitoring efficacy of preventive or therapeutic strategies. Aptamers, comprising single-stranded or double-stranded DNA or RNA, can serve as biomarkers of disease or biological states. Aptamers can bind to specific epitopes on macromolecules by virtue of their three dimensional structures and, much like antibodies, aptamers can be used to target specific epitopes on the basis of their molecular shape. The Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment (SELEX) is the approach used to select high affinity aptamers for specific macromolecular targets from among the >10¹³ oligomers comprising typical random oligomer libraries. In the present study, we used live cell-based SELEX to identify DNA aptamers which recognize cell surface differences between HPV-transformed cervical carcinoma cancer cells and isogenic, nontumorigenic, revertant cell lines.

Methodology/Principal Findings

Whole-cell SELEX methodology was adapted for use with adherent cell lines (which we termed Adherent Cell-SELEX (AC-SELEX)). Using this approach, we identified high affinity aptamers (nanomolar range K_d) to epitopes specific to the cell surface of two nontumorigenic, nontumorigenic revertants derived from the human cervical cancer HeLa cell line, and demonstrated the loss of these epitopes in another human papillomavirus transformed cervical cancer cell line (SiHa). We also performed preliminary investigation of the aptamer epitopes and their binding characteristics.

Conclusions/Significance

Using AC-SELEX we have generated several aptamers that have high affinity and specificity to the nontumorigenic, revertant of HPV-transformed cervical cancer cells. These aptamers can be used to identify new biomarkers that are related to carcinogenesis. Panels of aptamers, such as these may be useful in predicting the tumorigenic potential and properties of cancer biopsies and aid in the effective management of pathological conditions (diagnosis, predicted outcome, and treatment options).

Label-free fluorescent assays based on aptamer-target recognition

Label-free fluorescent assays were developed based on the competition of intramolecular DNA hybridization and aptamer-target binding. Using small molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and biomacro-molecule thrombin as model targets, our design was proved to be a general method with good sensitivity and high selectivity.

Simple chemiluminescence aptasensors based on resonance energy transfer

In the present work, two aptamer-based probes and related sensor systems were developed with chemiluminescence signaling. The detection was based on "turning-on" chemiluminescence with switching "off" of the resonance energy transfer after the aptamer's recognition of the target molecule. In this design, a DNA/aptamer duplex linked a chemiluminescence group and a gold nanoparticle together. Only low-intensity chemiluminescence was obtained due to the highly efficient resonance energy transfer. After introducting the target molecule, structure-switching took place with turning off the energy transfer; thus, a restoration and turning on of the chemiluminescence was obtained. The two designs differed in the chemiluminescence groups, since one was a covalently linked luminol molecule, while the other was a conjugated horseradish peroxidase for the catalysis of further chemiluminescence reactions. These schemes provided simple and effective sensing toward a model analyte, adenosine.

Label-free fluorescent detection of ions, proteins, and small molecules using structure-switching aptamers, SYBR Gold, and exonuclease I

We have demonstrated a label-free sensing strategy employing structure-switching aptamers (SSAs), SYBR Gold, and exonuclease I to detect a broad range of targets including inorganic ions, proteins, and small molecules. This nearly universal biosensor approach is based on the observation that SSAs at binding state with their targets, which fold into secondary structures such as quadruplex structure or Y shape structure, show more resistance to nuclease digestion than SSAs at unfolded states. The amount of aptamer left after nuclease reaction is proportional to the concentrations of the targets and in turn is proportional to the fluorescence intensities from SYBR Gold that can only stain nucleic acids but not their digestion products, nucleoside monophosphates (dNMPs). Fluorescent assays employing this mechanism for the detection of potassium ion (K(+)) are sensitive, selective, and convenient. Twenty μM K(+) is readily detected even at the presence of a 500-fold excess of Na(+). Likewise, we have generalized the approach to the specific and convenient detection of proteins (thrombin) and small molecules (cocaine). The assays were then validated by detecting K(+), cocaine, and thrombin in urine and serum or cutting and masking adulterants with good agreements with the true values. Compared to other reported approaches, most limited to G-quadruplex structures, the demonstrated method has less structure requirements of both the SSAs and their complexes with targets, therefore rending its wilder applications for various targets. The detection scheme could be easily modified and extended to detection platforms to further improve the detection sensitivity or for other applications as well as being useful in high-throughput and paralleled analysis of multiple targets.

A graphene oxide-based fluorescent aptasensor for the turn-on detection of epithelial tumor marker mucin 1

Mucin 1 (MUC1) which presents in epithelial malignancies, is a well-known tumor biomarker. In this paper, a highly sensitive and selective fluorescent aptasensor for Mucin 1 (MUC1) detection is constructed, utilizing graphene oxide (GO) as a quencher which can quench the fluorescence of single-stranded dye-labeled MUC1 specific aptamer. In the absence of MUC1, the adsorption of the dye-labeled aptamer on GO brings the dyes in close proximity to the GO surface resulting in high efficiency quenching of dye fluorescence. Therefore, the fluorescence of the designed aptasensor is completely quenched by GO, and the system shows very low background fluorescence. Conversely, and very importantly, upon the adding of MUC1, the quenched fluorescence is recovered significantly, and MUC1 can be detected in a wide range of 0.04-10 μM with a detection limit of 28 nM and good selectivity. Moreover, the results have also been verified for real sample application by testing 2% serum containing buffer solution spiked with a series of concentrations of MUC1.