Latest Advancements in Aptamer: Screening, Molecular Conformation, and Therapeutic Applications

Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides that possess the ability to specifically recognize and bind to target molecules, and they can be obtained through the SELEX process. Aptamers offer numerous advantages, including low molecular weight, low immunogenicity, ease of modification, and high stability. These characteristics enable them to play a significant role in advancing food safety, environmental monitoring, and basic research, especially in clinical diagnostics and therapeutic drugs.

To date, substantial progress has been made in the selection, modification, and application of aptamers. However, obtaining high-affinity aptamers in a more efficient manner remains a challenge, which is why few aptamer-based products have successfully entered clinical use.

This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in this rapidly evolving field, focusing on aptamer screening methods for different targets, the interaction structures between aptamers and target substances, and the current challenges and potential of therapeutic aptamers.

Reference：

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34649356/