A bioresponsive controlled-release biosensor using Au nanocages capped with an aptamer-based molecular gate and its application in living cells

摘要

A novel bioresponsive controlled-release biosensor using Au nanocages capped with an aptamer-based molecular gate was reported for the first time. The use of aptamers as caps has proven to be a suitable method for the preparation of "bio-gated" delivery systems that can be selectively opened in the presence of target biomolecules. Owing to the desirable biocompatibility and bioinert nature, Au nanoparticles have been regarded as the most prominent candidates for both in vitro and in vivo applications. Recently, Au nanoparticles have been tested in a phase-I clinical trial for tumor-targeted drug delivery.