[Aptamers: a novel approach to intervention studies and development of novel therapeutic approaches]

Med Klin (Munich). 1999 Apr 15;94(4):219-23. doi: 10.1007/BF03044858.
[Article in German]

Abstract

A rapidly growing number of factors is identified that might contribute to disease. To characterize the pathogenetic relevance of a particular factor, specific intervention studies in vivo appear necessary. The present discussion deals with a new class of inhibitors, i.e. aptamers. Aptamers (derived from the latin word "aptus" = fitting) are short DNA or RNA oligomers which can bind to a given ligand with high affinity and specificity due to their particular three-dimensional structure and which may thereby, for example, antagonize the biological function of the ligand. Aptamers have been generated against a large variety of molecules ranging from amino acids to complex proteins and even disaccharides. Using platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and an experimental mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis as a model, we describe the in vivo effects of an antagonistic aptamer against PDGF-B. Such studies will greatly aid the identification of the biological role of particular mediators and ultimately the design of novel therapeutic strategies.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • DNA / chemistry
  • DNA / pharmacology
  • DNA / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Oligonucleotides / chemistry*
  • Oligonucleotides / pharmacology
  • Oligonucleotides / therapeutic use*
  • RNA / chemistry
  • RNA / pharmacology
  • RNA / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Oligonucleotides
  • RNA
  • DNA