The group around Kazunori IKEBUKURO has used the SELEX method to develop an aptamer which binds to myoglobin and changes the three-dimensional structure of the active site. As a result, the enzymatic activity of myoglobin and the substrate specificity for luminol are increased, so that the luminescence signal generated by the peroxidase reaction over 300 times higher than usual. The group plans to combine their system with an aptamer for a target virus or pathogen so that the three-dimensional structure is assembled in the presence of the target. This would allow virus or pathogen detection technology by light.

Nikkei Biotech, June 11, 2021