DNA "nano-claw": logic-based autonomous cancer targeting and therapy

J Am Chem Soc. 2014 Jan 29;136(4):1256-9. doi: 10.1021/ja4114903. Epub 2014 Jan 13.

Abstract

Cell types, both healthy and diseased, can be classified by inventories of their cell-surface markers. Programmable analysis of multiple markers would enable clinicians to develop a comprehensive disease profile, leading to more accurate diagnosis and intervention. As a first step to accomplish this, we have designed a DNA-based device, called "Nano-Claw". Combining the special structure-switching properties of DNA aptamers with toehold-mediated strand displacement reactions, this claw is capable of performing autonomous logic-based analysis of multiple cancer cell-surface markers and, in response, producing a diagnostic signal and/or targeted photodynamic therapy. We anticipate that this design can be widely applied in facilitating basic biomedical research, accurate disease diagnosis, and effective therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aptamers, Nucleotide / chemistry*
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis*
  • DNA, Neoplasm / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Nanotechnology*
  • Neoplasms / chemistry
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Neoplasms / therapy*

Substances

  • Aptamers, Nucleotide
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • DNA, Neoplasm