Institutional development · Research, innovation and assessment · Switzerland
EPFL lab redesigns DNA aptamer sensing to target hormones and neurotransmitters
A chemical nanotechnology team at EPFL has reworked the way aptamer sensors recognise their targets, an approach the university says could support quick tests for small molecules.
Why it matters: Diagnostics researchers have a new EPFL approach aimed at small molecules, such as testosterone and serotonin, that conventional sandwich tests struggle to detect.
EPFL said its scientists have rethought the way aptamers, brief strands of DNA employed in molecular sensors, recognise the molecules they are designed to find.
According to EPFL, the adaptable technique might allow fast testing for small molecules, including hormones and neurotransmitters.
EPFL noted that sandwich assays, the basis of home COVID and pregnancy tests, rely on two separate antibodies binding to a target, whereas small molecules such as testosterone and serotonin offer too little surface for this.
The research was carried out by CHEMINA, EPFL's Laboratory of Chemical Nanotechnology, which sits within the School of Engineering.
Editor’s view
Scott James, Research and Innovation Editor
Molecular sensing researchers are those most directly concerned: if the technique works as EPFL describes, it could open quick testing for hormones and neurotransmitters too small to carry two binding sites.
