Advances and Trends in miRNA Analysis Using DNAzyme-Based Biosensors

Abstract

miRNAs are endogenous small, non-coding RNA molecules that function in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Because miRNA plays a pivotal role in maintaining the intracellular environment, and abnormal expression has been found in many cancer diseases, detection of miRNA as a biomarker is important for early diagnosis of disease and study of miRNA function. However, because miRNA is present in extremely low concentrations in cells and many types of miRNAs with similar sequences are mixed, traditional gene detection methods are not suitable for miRNA detection. Therefore, in order to overcome this limitation, a signal amplification process is essential for high sensitivity. In particular, enzyme-free signal amplification systems such as DNAzyme systems have been developed for miRNA analysis with high specificity. DNAzymes have the advantage of being more stable in the physiological environment than enzymes, easy to chemically synthesize, and biocompatible. In this review, we summarize and introduce the methods using DNAzyme-based biosensors, especially with regard to various signal amplification methods for high sensitivity and strategies for improving detection specificity. We also discuss the current challenges and trends of these DNAzyme-based biosensors.

Nanotechnology-based non-viral vectors for gene delivery in cardiovascular diseases

“…Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are the most widely studied metal nanoparticles with excellent physical and chemical properties ( Zhang, 2022b ), such as bioinert, low cytotoxicity, and high stability, and AuNPs are easy to prepare and modify, which is suitable for the delivery of nucleic acid in gene therapy ( Tang et al, 2022 ; Lee et al, 2023 ). AuNPs-based application in combination with existing gene therapy has been recognized as an innovative tactic with potent possibility in treating heart disease ( Pala et al, 2020 ).…”