Aptamer-Based Point-of-Care Devices: Emerging Technologies and Integration of Computational Methods

Abstract

Recent innovations in point-of-care (POC) diagnostic technologies have paved a critical road for the improved application of biomedicine through the deployment of accurate and affordable programs into resource-scarce settings. The utilization of antibodies as a bio-recognition element in POC devices is currently limited due to obstacles associated with cost and production, impeding its widespread adoption. One promising alternative, on the other hand, is aptamer integration, i.e., short sequences of single-stranded DNA and RNA structures. The advantageous properties of these molecules are as follows: small molecular size, amenability to chemical modification, low- or nonimmunogenic characteristics, and their reproducibility within a short generation time. The utilization of these aforementioned features is critical in developing sensitive and portable POC systems. Furthermore, the deficiencies related to past experimental efforts to improve biosensor schematics, including the design of biorecognition elements, can be tackled with the integration of computational tools. These complementary tools enable the prediction of the reliability and functionality of the molecular structure of aptamers. In this review, we have overviewed the usage of aptamers in the development of novel and portable POC devices, in addition to highlighting the insights that simulations and other computational methods can provide into the use of aptamer modeling for POC integration.

Review—Aptamers and Biomimetic Receptors in Biosensing: Innovations and Applications

“…128 Multiplexed biosensing with aptamers and biomimetic receptors.-Using aptamers and biomimetic receptors, multiplexed biosensing is a sophisticated analytical technique that enables the simultaneous detection and measurement of several target compounds in a single experiment. 129 With the use of this potent method, which combines the distinct binding characteristics of aptamers and biomimetic receptors, scientists may tackle challenging analytical problems in a variety of industries, such as biotechnology, environmental monitoring, and healthcare. Materials made to resemble the molecular recognition characteristics of biological receptors are known as biomimetic receptors.…”

Drug Delivery Systems for Personal Healthcare by Smart Wearable Patch System

“…However, it is expected that recently researched aptamer-based biosensors will overcome the issues related to accuracy and sensitivity of detection. The advantages of aptamers in smart biosensors compared to antibodies are their higher affinity to analytes; higher stability against changes in pH, temperature, and salt; reproducibility and accurate mass production; and ease of functionalization [ 86 ]. For these reasons, aptamer-based biosensors and smart wearable patch systems incorporating them are emerging as a promising technology for point-of-care testing (POCT), point-of-care diagnostics (POCD), and personalized healthcare platforms.…”

Metallic nanostructure-based aptasensors for robust detection of proteins

“…In the past few decades, nanomaterial-based ECAs had a profound effect on bioanalysis according to their high sensitivity. 32 Nevertheless, a comprehensive discussion is required to address the barriers to aptasensor commercialization. Hence, a comprehensive discussion has centered on aptamer recognition layer-based electrochemical sensors.…”