The SELEX method, the selection process used by Novaptech for the identification of aptamers

SELEX is a cutting-edge technique used to identify, from a vast library of oligonucleotide sequences, those with the ability to bind specifically and strongly to a given target, be it a small molecule, a protein or even intact cells.
This process, mastered by Novaptech experts, exploits molecular diversity to isolate aptamers displaying high affinity and specificity for their target.

The SELEX approach to aptamer selection is a highly complex method that begins with the synthesis of an oligonucleotide library exhibiting a huge diversity, essential for identifying sequences with specific affinity for a given target.
Through a series of successive steps: binding, separation and amplification, this process refines and enriches this library into highly specific aptamers.
This systematic approach ensures efficient and accurate selection, paving the way for innovative applications in various fields of research and therapeutics.

 
1. Creating a library : The SELEX method begins with the generation of a library containing a wide variety of oligonucleotide sequences. This diversity is essential for successful selection, as it offers a broad spectrum of potential aptamer candidates.

 
2. Target binding : Sequences are brought into contact with the target of interest. Only those that bind to the target are retained for subsequent steps, while non-binders are eliminated.

 
3. Separation and recovery : Aptamer-target complexes are separated from non-binding sequences. This stage involves various separation methods such as filtration, the use of affinity columns or centrifugation.

 
4. Amplification : The bound aptamers are then amplified, either by PCR for DNA or by reverse transcription followed by PCR for RNA, to generate the enriched library for an additional selection cycle.

 
5. Targeted enrichment : The binding, separation and amplification process is repeated over several cycles to progressively enrich the library with sequences with the highest affinity for the target.

The SELEX selection principle has revolutionized the development of tools for a multitude of applications, ranging from medical diagnostics and environmental detection to therapeutic targeting.

Aptamers selected via SELEX by Novaptech offer several advantages over traditional antibodies, including greater stability, less costly synthesis and absence of batch-to-batch variability.

Applications :

· Medical diagnostics : Used in the early detection of diseases through the identification of specific biomarkers.

· Therapeutics : Enable the development of new drugs and/or the targeting of diseased cells without affecting healthy cells.

· Environmental analysis : Detects specifically contaminants or toxins in water, air, and soil.

· And more : actually any application involving antibodies can be translated in and benefit from aptamers

Advantages over antibodies :

· Greater stability : Aptamers are more resistant to temperature and pH variations.

· Cost-effective synthesis : Aptamers are less expensive to produce.

· Reproducibility : Aptamers minimize batch-to-batch variations, ensuring consistent quality.

· Flexibility of modification : Aptamers can be easily modified to improve binding or stability.

· Non-immunogenicity : They are less likely to trigger undesirable immune responses.

The SELEX process stands out from other ligand selection methods, such as immunoselection or chemical screens, mainly because of its high specificity, speed and low cost.
Unlike immunoselection, which relies on the time-consuming and costly production of antibodies, the SELEX principle enables rapid and efficient selection of aptamers, depending on the nature of the oligonucleotides, without the need for alive biological systems (cells or animals).
As for chemical screening, although broad in its approach, it does not guarantee the high specificity achieved by SELEX.
SELEX offers a more targeted and cost-effective method of identifying molecules with a strong affinity for their target, making this technique particularly attractive for the development of rapid test kits and devices.

Innovations in SELEX, driven by Novaptech, such as the integration of high-throughput
technologies, have transformed aptamer selection, making the process faster and more accurate.
Our high-throughput SELEX aptamer selection principle uses massive sequencing and screening techniques to analyze millions of sequences simultaneously.
As for future prospects, the ongoing evolution of SELEX, combined with Novaptech’s expertise, promises to open up new avenues in the research and development of innovative treatments.
With the technological advances and research carried out by Novaptech, the SELEX process continues to evolve, integrating high-throughput methods and computational analysis to accelerate aptamer selection and identification. These innovations promise to further broaden the application of aptamers in research.
The SELEX ability to isolate highly specific molecules makes it an essential pillar in the field of biotechnology. With this application in aptamer selection, Novaptech is paving the way for discoveries that will transform our approach to disease detection and treatment.