BPS2026 - Aptamer-based DNA nanoswitches for protein detection

The sensitive detection of biologically relevant proteins is critical for both clinical diagnostics and fundamental research, yet many existing assays remain expensive, time-consuming, or technically complex. Developing simple, modular platforms that enable reliable detection of diverse protein targets could reduce barriers for applications in healthcare and research. To address this need, we incorporated aptamers into the detector strands of our established DNA nanoswitch platform. Thrombin, a key clotting factor, and VEGF, a central regulator of angiogenesis, were selected as target biomolecules for aptamer-based detection. Protein binding induces nanoswitch looping, producing a detectable signal via gel electrophoresis. Using this approach, VEGF- and thrombin-responsive nanoswitch activity was confirmed, establishing proof of principle. Ongoing efforts focus on adjusting loop size to modulate signal strength and designing multidetector nanoswitches with multiple aptamers to enhance detection. This aptamer-based nanoswitch platform offers a low-cost, versatile method for detecting clinically relevant proteins. Expanding its compatibility will broaden diagnostic applications while providing valuable insight into the detection limits of aptamer-based systems.