This technology is an in vitro platform based on conformational DNA aptamers that can be used for detecting small molecules in lateral flow assays (LFAs).
Traditional lateral flow assays (LFAs) employ a sandwich format, in which two antibodies bind to different parts of the target analyte. However, the detection of small molecules poses a significant challenge, as these analytes often have limited surface area and few functional groups to facilitate the simultaneous binding of two recognition elements, such as antibodies. Moreover, switching to smaller recognition elements such as static DNA aptamers does not solve this limitation for low-molecular-weight analytes.
This technology introduces a novel concept of aptamer-target interaction, enabling the detection of small molecules. First, a primary aptamer undergoes a substantial conformational rearrangement upon interacting with the target of interest. Then, a secondary aptamer specifically recognizes the primary aptamer-target complex only after this structural change, binding to the newly formed interaction pockets. This approach enables efficient capture of small molecules, allowing analyte detection in LFAs in a cost-effective, scalable, and broadly applicable manner.
This technology has been validated in vitro for detecting the neurotransmitter serotonin.
Kyungae Yang, Ph.D.
IR CU26117
Licensing Contact: Jerry Kokoshka
