AptaBlocks

AptaBlocks designs RNA complexes that hybridize via double-stranded "sticky bridges" to form stable aptamer–cargo constructs for applications in RNA-based therapeutics and RNA nanotechnology.

Key Features:

• Sticky Bridge Design: Designs double-stranded sticky bridges that connect aptamers and therapeutic cargos to mediate selective hybridization.
• Computational Methodology: Employs computational design to ensure complex stability, prevent interference with aptamer or cargo function, and avoid molecular aggregation.
• General Applicability: Applies to the assembly of nucleic acid systems and other constructs within RNA nanotechnology.

Scientific Applications:

• RNA-Based Therapeutics: Supports design of RNA complexes for targeted delivery and internalization into specific cells, including pancreatic cancer cells.
• Aptamer-Cargo Constructs: Facilitates creation of stable aptamer–cargo constructs for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents.
• RNA Nanotechnology: Serves as a method for assembling nucleic acid systems in RNA nanotechnology research.

Methodology:

AptaBlocks uses a computational design process that models and designs double-stranded sticky bridges to ensure RNA complex formation and stability while minimizing interference with aptamer or cargo function and preventing molecular aggregation.