Successful aptamer selection depends on factors such as target size, stringency, amplification, regeneration, sequencing, and quality control. Optimizing these elements can significantly enhance success rates in diagnostic and medical applications.

Latest advancements in aptamer screening, molecular conformation, and therapeutic applications offer great promise for food safety, environmental monitoring, and clinical diagnostics.

Based on aptamers, a disposable biosensor utilizing double-stranded aptamers, which are bound to the surface of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) via Au-S bonds, is employed as a sensor probe in a lateral flow assay (LFA) device. This setup enables rapid, non-invasive salivary cortisol detection with high selectivity for related steroids and stress biomarkers.