Method for generating aptamers with improved off-rates

Abstract

The present disclosure describes improved SELEX methods for producing aptamers that are capable of binding to target molecules and improved photoSELEX methods for producing photoreactive aptamers that are capable of both binding and covalently cross linking to target molecules. Specifically, the present disclosure describes methods for producing aptamers and photoaptamers having slower dissociation rate constants than are obtained using prior SELEX and photoSELEX methods. The disclosure further describes aptamers and photoaptamers having slower dissociation rate constants than those obtained using prior methods. In addition, the disclosure describes aptamer constructs that include a variety of functionalities, including a cleavable element, a detection element, and a capture or immobilization element.

Description

field of invention The present invention generally relates to methods of producing aptamers and photoaptamers with improved properties, and to improved aptamers and photoaptamers produced thereby. In particular, the present invention describes slow off-rate aptamers that are highly specific for a target of interest. The present invention describes the composition of these slow off-rate aptamers and methods for their selection. The present invention further describes aptamer constructs with improved functionality for use in detection methods. Further, the present invention describes the use of these improved aptamers. Background of the invention The following specification provides a summary of information pertinent to the teachings of the present invention, but is not an admission that any information provided herein or any publication referenced is prior art to the claimed invention. The SELEX method is a method for selecting nucleic acid molecules capable of highly spe...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, these selection methods do not distinguish between the selection of agents with fast binding kinetics (i.e., fast on-rates) to the target and those with slow dissociation kinetics (i.e., slow off-rates) from the target

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