Abstract:
Aptamers are nucleic acid oligomers with distinct conformational shapes that allow
binding targets with high affinity and specificity. Selective Evolution of Ligands by Exponential
Enrichment (SELEX); an in vitro selection process to develop aptamers, has been
invented in 1990. Despite more than 20 years have passed after its discovery, products
of SELEX technology are in use in medicine. In this review we discuss why we need aptamers
not only in therapeutic but also in diagnostic applications; and also critical points
in SELEX technology. Finally; we present the aptamers in use and some patented aptamers
awaiting approval.
