Advances and Challenges in Small‐Molecule DNA Aptamer Isolation, Characterization, and Sensor Development

TL;DR: Aptamers are short oligonucleotides isolated in vitro from randomized libraries that can bind to specific molecules with high affinity, and offer a number of advantages relative to antibodies as biorecognition elements in biosensors as discussed by the authors.

Abstract: Aptamers are short oligonucleotides isolated in vitro from randomized libraries that can bind to specific molecules with high affinity, and offer a number of advantages relative to antibodies as biorecognition elements in biosensors However, it remains difficult and labor-intensive to develop aptamer-based sensors for small-molecule detection Here, we review the challenges and advances in the isolation and characterization of small-molecule-binding DNA aptamers and their use in sensors First, we discuss in vitro methodologies for the isolation of aptamers, and provide guidance on selecting the appropriate strategy for generating aptamers with optimal binding properties for a given application We next examine techniques for characterizing aptamer-target binding and structure Afterwards, we discuss various small-molecule sensing platforms based on original or engineered aptamers, and their detection applications Finally, we conclude with a general workflow to develop aptamer-based small-molecule sensors for real-world applications