Delivery of hydrophilic small molecule therapeutics is challenging. This study uses the specific interaction between DNA aptamers and drugs to create sustained-release drug depot systems. Phosphorothioate-modified aptamers formed non-covalent complexes with site 1 sodium channel blockers tetrodotoxin and saxitoxin, prolonging local anesthesia and reducing systemic toxicity. The effects were specific to the targeted compounds. This establishes aptamers as highly specific, modifiable drug delivery systems with potential for managing postoperative pain.
Publisher
Nature Communications
Published On
Apr 28, 2023
Authors
Dali Wang, Yang Li, Xiaoran Deng, Matthew Torre, Zipei Zhang, Xiyu Li, Wei Zhang, Kathleen Cullion, Daniel S. Kohane, Christopher B. Weldon
Tags
DNA aptamers
drug delivery
sustained release
local anesthesia
systemic toxicity
postoperative pain
small molecule therapeutics
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