Aptamers are short RNA or DNA sequences that bind to their target proteins with high affinity and specificity. Traditionally aptamers are screened using a methodology called SELEX that is laborious and random. Here we want to include rational design into the development of aptamers using computational methodologies. By using the 3D structure of the aptamer and the target protein we can optimize the binding interactions and test experimentally only the most promising aptamers. This methodology can revolutionize aptamer design by making it easier, more rational and cheaper.

2024

2026