Advanced Aptamer Discovery Application Platform (ADAP)

Project dates: 01/10/2010 - 30/09/2027

Traditional analytical techniques, such as mass spectrometry and chromatography, are hindered by their complexity, cost, and lack of suitability for real-time measurements. This project leverages the unique properties of short single-stranded RNA and DNA aptamers, which can bind specific targets with high affinity and precision due to their adaptable 3D structures. Aptamers, being synthetic, compact, and highly flexible, are ideally suited for molecular detection technologies and real-time biosensing. The project focuses on developing the Advance Aptamer Discovery and Application Platform (ADAP) to simultaneously isolate DNA aptamers against multiple ligands and integrate them into artificial sensing systems.

Specific aims include:

  • Develop a ADAP that allows the rapid evolution of multiple aptamers.
  • Integrate ADAP-selected aptamers into various biosensors.
  • Establish an aptamer-mediated detection in both cell-free and cellular contexts.

These selected aptamers will be incorporated into in vitro and in vivo systems capable of providing accurate and sensitive signals upon analyte recognition. This initiative strives to transform current analytical and diagnostic approaches, delivering faster and more precise methods for molecular target monitoring. The creation of rapid, portable sensor devices tailored for industries such as food and beverage, healthcare, biosafety, and security is underway. These innovations will also benefit research laboratories and biotech companies, enabling swift on-site analysis of metabolic pathways, toxic compounds, drugs, environmental contaminants, and disease biomarkers.

Project team

Project funding