PubReading [126] - Split light up aptamers as a probing tool for nucleic acids - Y. Gerasimovaa, D Nedorezovab and D. Kolpashchikov

<p><strong>Aptamers</strong> that bind non-fluorescent dyes and increase their fluorescence can be converted to fluorescent sensors. Here, we discuss and provide guidance for the design of split (binary) <strong>light up aptameric sensors</strong> (SLAS) for nucleic acid analysis. SLAS consist of two RNA or DNA strands and a fluorogenic organic dye added as a buffer component. The two strands hybridize to the analyzed DNA or RNA sequence and form a dye-binding pocket, followed by dye binding, and increase in its fluorescence. <strong>SLAS</strong> can detect nucleic acids in a cost-efficient label-free format since it does not require conjugation of organic dyes with <strong>nucleic acids</strong>. SLAS design is preferable over monolith fluorescent sensors due to simpler assay optimization and improved selectivity. RNA-based SLAS can be expressed in cells and used for intracellular monitoring and imaging biological molecules.</p>