Aptamer-Based Targeting of Nanoplatforms for Cancer Theranostics

A novel approach to developing solutions for biomedical applications may be made possible by aptamer-functionalized nanoparticles, which combine the benefits of nanoparticles with the cell-targeting properties of aptamers. The focus of the current chapter was on the structure of the aptamer as well as aptamer-conjugated theranostic nanomaterials used to target cancer cells. The systematic development of ligands using exponential enrichment technology produces aptamers, which are single-stranded DNA, RNA, or altered nucleic acid sequences with a high affinity for specific target binding. Aptamer-based nucleic acid nanodevices might effectively assemble on the surfaces of target cells, and an increase in selectivity in the electrochemical and electrochemiluminescence detection of cancer cells has also been brought about by the high specificity of aptamers to target cells. Due to the multivalent effect, aptamer-based inorganic and organic nanomaterials exhibit excellent binding ability of aptamers to target. Target tissues can be completely or partially destroyed by aptamer-bound nanomaterials that show photothermal and photodynamic treatment. Therefore, a novel approach to treating cancer is provided by the combination of nanomaterials and aptamers.