What are Aptamers?

About Aptamers:

• They are short, single-stranded DNA or RNA (ssDNA or ssRNA) molecules that can selectively bind to a specific target, including proteins, peptides, carbohydrates, small molecules, toxins, and even live cells.
• Aptamers assume a variety of shapes due to their tendency to form helices and single-stranded loops. 
• They can be used as an antibody alternative in a variety of therapeutic, diagnostic, and target-binding applications.
• They can also be readily conjugated to gold nanoparticles or quantum dots as a basis for point-of-care diagnostics.
• Aptamers have been successfully used for the diagnosis and therapy of a broad spectrum of pathogens including bacteria, parasites, and viruses.

What is a Biomarker?

• It is a biological molecule found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that is a sign of a normal or abnormal process, or of a condition or disease. 
• A biomarker may be used to see how well the body responds to a treatment for a disease or condition.