Specific recognition by the complementary nature of nucleic acid bases leads to advances in nucleic acid detection. Recently, functional nucleic acids such as molecular beacons, aptamers and DNAzymes have been synthesized for specific binding on a diverse range of analytes, including metal ions, organic dyes, amino acids, oligosaccharides, peptides, toxins, enzymes, viral proteins, or even cells and bacteria. Detection schemes including fluorescence techniques, colorimetric assay and electrochemical methods have drawn increasing interest due to their enabling of high sensitivity, high affinity, wide dynamic range, and fast response, using equipment of relatively low cost, and being utilized towards applications of great potential in biochemical sensing/diagnostics, as well as cell imaging.
The objective of this Research Topic is to become the point of reference for articles that highlight the technical improvements currently being developed and the fabrication of nucleic acid probes for sensing/diagnostic applications that could enhance the quality of healthcare. We aim to discuss the functional nucleic acids for targeting diseases, multiplexing detection systems, synthetic DNA mimic immobilization strategies, electroactivity of nucleic acids, the mechanism of detection schemes, cell imaging, as well as challenges and suggestions to improve the application.
We welcome submissions of Original Research, Review, and Perspective articles. Prospective themes can include, but are not limited to:
• Nucleic acid-based sensing techniques proposed for the discrimination or detection of metals, toxins, parasites, pathogens, virus, or microbial organisms that are potentially harmful to human health for clinical applications
• Improved detection features or combinatorial selection of nucleic acid-based sensing/diagnostic designs
• Incorporating nucleic acid fragments with other nanomaterials, polymers, or peptides for biochemical analyte determination
• Multiplex bioassay detections with labeled or label-free target molecules
We would like to acknowledge
Dr Surachate Kalasin, who has acted as a coordinator and has contributed to the preparation of the proposal for this Research Topic.
