Selection of aptamers against prostate specific antigen for diagnostic and therapeutic applications

Identifier:  TDX:1072

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX1072

Authors:  Svobodová, Markéta

Abstract:
Currently, PSA is considered the most sensitive marker available for prostate cancer detection and for monitoring its progression. To date monoclonal/polyclonal antibodies have been used to detect PSA due to their high specificity and sensitivity. However, the production of antibodies is time-consuming and expensive. On the other hand aptamers with specificity and affinity equal to those of antibodies could be an alternative way for the detection of PSA. This work overviews the selection of aptamers against prostate specific antigen (PSA). Fundamental aspects such as the characterization of PSA, evaluation of immobilization strategies, the preparation of oligonucleotide library and single stranded DNA (ssDNA) have been evaluated in order to reach the main objective of this thesis. Finally, selection of DNA and RNA based aptamers against PSA and their potential use in diagnostic and therapeutic applications have been described