A Capture-SELEX Strategy for Multiplexed Selection of RNA Aptamers Against Small Molecules.

In vitro selection of aptamers that recognize small organic molecules has proven difficult, in part due to the challenge of immobilizing small molecules on solid supports for SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment). This study describes the implementation of RNA Capture-SELEX, a selection strategy that uses an RNA library to yield ligand-responsive RNA aptamers targeting small organic molecules in solution. To demonstrate the power of this method we selected several aptamers with specificity towards either the natural sweetener rebaudioside A or the food-coloring agent carminic acid.

Amplification and re-generation of LNA-modified libraries.

Locked nucleic acids (LNA) confer high thermal stability and nuclease resistance to oligonucleotides. The discovery of polymerases that accept LNA triphosphates has led us to propose a scheme for the amplification and re-generation of LNA-containing oligonucleotide libraries. Such libraries could be used for in vitro selection of e.

Locked and unlocked nucleosides in functional nucleic acids.

Nucleic acids are able to adopt a plethora of structures, many of which are of interest in therapeutics, bio- or nanotechnology. However, structural and biochemical stability is a major concern which has been addressed by incorporating a range of modifications and nucleoside derivatives. This review summarizes the use of locked nucleic acid (LNA) and un-locked nucleic acid (UNA) monomers in functional nucleic acids such as aptamers, ribozymes, and DNAzymes.

The natural history of recurrent acute tonsillitis and a clinical trial of azithromycin for antibiotic prophylaxis.

The pharmacokinetics of azithromycin (Zitromax), Pfizer Inc., USA) in tonsil tissue warranted the present trial. In 110 patients eligible for tonsillectomy because of recurrent acute tonsillitis, surgery was replaced by randomized medication with azithromycin 500 mg or placebo once per week for 6 months.