Recent research demonstrates that aptamer-DNAzyme-based metal-nucleic acid frameworks (MNFs) represent a significant advancement in targeted gastric cancer therapy, offering improved stability, synthesis efficiency, and tumor specificity compared to earlier nanomaterial approaches.

Researchers have developed DNA aptamers for detecting atropine and timolol maleate in ocular fluid. This breakthrough addresses the limitations of traditional methods for monitoring these low-concentration eye disease treatments, enabling personalized medicine and improving drug delivery efficacy.

Aptamer-modified NK cells (ApEn-NK) are created by chemically anchoring CD30-specific aptamers to the surface of NK cells. These modified cells can specifically target and kill lymphoma cells without reacting with off-target cells. This approach requires no gene editing or cellular damage, offering a novel method for NK cell-targeted immunotherapy.

The novel DNA aptamer, Aptamin C, enhances the antioxidant efficacy of Vitamin C by binding to its reduced form, thereby delaying oxidation. Clinical test results indicate that it can significantly improve skin wrinkles, boost skin hydration, and reduce skin irritation. This makes Aptamin C a promising cosmeceutical ingredient suitable for various skin conditions.

Aptamer-engineered nanomaterials offer several advantages, including reduced cytotoxicity, enhanced stability, improved selectivity/sensitivity, and the versatility to expand into various biomedical applications.

Aptamer-conjugated bacteria have shown enhanced anti-tumor efficacy and targeted tumor localization, potentially improving cancer biotherapy.

Current diagnostic methods for dengue fever, such as serological tests, have limitations regarding cross-reactivity with other viruses. A novel dengue virus diagnostic method, combining aptamer technology with Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), has shown extremely high specificity with no cross-reactivity observed when tested against other viral samples, including Zika virus.

A wearable cortisol aptamer sensor can detect cortisol levels as low as approximately 1 nM from real sweat within minutes, making it a flexible and rapid method for monitoring stress hormones.

While aptamers offer advantages over antibodies in biosensors, hybrid biosensing approaches that combine both elements are valuable, indicating they are complementary rather than competitive.