Aptamers--basic research, drug development, and clinical applications.
Since its discovery in the early 1990s, aptamer technology has progressed tremendously. Automated selection procedures now allow rapid identification of DNA and RNA sequences that can target a broad range of extra- and intracellular proteins with nanomolar affinities and high specificities. The unique binding properties of nucleic acids, which are amenable to various modifications, make aptamers perfectly suitable for different areas of biotechnology. Moreover, the approval of an aptamer for vascular endothelial growth factor by the US Food and Drug Administration highlights the potential of aptamers for therapeutic applications. This review summarizes recent developments and demonstrates that aptamers are valuable tools for diagnostics, purification processes, target validation, drug discovery, and even therapeutic approaches.
Proske
Daniela
D
NascaCell IP GmbH, 3. OG, Modul D Max-Lebsche-Platz, 3181377 Munich, Germany. d.proske@nascacell.de
Blank
Michael
M
Buhmann
Raymund
R
Resch
Ansgar
A
D000818:Animals; D052157:Aptamers, Nucleotide / Q000138:chemical synthesis / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015195:Drug Design; D006801:Humans; D051381:Rats; D012106:Research; D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / Q000378:metabolism
D052157:Aptamers, Nucleotide; D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A