Applications and Challenges of Bacteriostatic Aptamers in the Treatment of Common Pathogenic Bacteria Infections

Biomacromolecules. 2023 Nov 13;24(11):4568-4586. doi: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00634. Epub 2023 Sep 20.

Abstract

The continuous evolution and spread of common pathogenic bacteria is a major challenge in diagnosis and treatment with current biotechnology and modern molecular medicine. To confront this challenge, scientists urgently need to find alternatives for traditional antimicrobial agents. Various bacteriostatic aptamers obtained through SELEX screening are one of the most promising strategies. These bacteriostatic aptamers can reduce bacterial infection by blocking bacterial toxin infiltration, inhibiting biofilm formation, preventing bacterial invasion of immune cells, interfering with essential biochemical processes, and other mechanisms. In addition, aptamers may also help enhance the function of other antibacterial materials/drugs when used in combination. This paper has reviewed the bacteriostatic aptamers in the treatment of common pathogenic bacteria infections. For this aspect, first, bacteriostatic aptamers and their screening strategies are summarized. Then, the effect of molecular tailoring and modification on the performance of the bacteriostatic aptamer is analyzed, and the antibacterial mechanism and antibacterial strategy based on aptamers are introduced. Finally, the key technical challenges and their development prospects in clinical treatment are also carefully discussed.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Aptamers, Nucleotide* / chemistry
  • Aptamers, Nucleotide* / pharmacology
  • Aptamers, Nucleotide* / therapeutic use
  • Bacteria
  • Bacterial Infections* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • SELEX Aptamer Technique / methods

Substances

  • Aptamers, Nucleotide
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents