Advances in aptamer screening technologies

Systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) is a well-established technology for the screening of aptamers binding to various targets with relatively high specificity and affinity. The screened aptamers have shown great achievements in bio-sensing and targeted therapeutics, which in turn stimulate continuous development of SELEX technology. To date, many SELEX technologies have been established, such as cell-SELEX, mag-SELEX, capillary electrophoresis SELEX and some novel modifications of SELEX. This review highlights current screening technologies and comprehensively pinpoints their principles, pros and cons. Some main aptamers screened by SELEX or involved in clinical trials are summarized. While, there are still challenges in obtaining of aptamer with high affinity and in an efficient way. The limitations and possible future directions on the screening of aptamers are also outlined.