DNA APTAMER ARRAYS FOR DETECTION OF CANCER BIOMARKERS

The major goal of cancer proteomics is detection and identification of human tumors based on 'protein signatures' characteristic for different malignancies, Early tumor detection is critical for effective treatment and patient survival. Simultaneous identification of multiple cancer specific protein biomarkers in body fluids would dramatically increase specificity and accuracy of cancer detection and diagnosis. Protein microarrays where protein detection is performed by antibodies are promising new tools. However, the limiting factor for wider use of protein arrays is availability of specific antibodies and their stability. We propose to use DNA aptamers for capturing and detection of cancer.related biomarkers which are present in blood and urine, Aptamers are excellent alternatives for antibodies because they are easier to isolate and more stable than antibodies. Aptamers specific against protein biomarkers could be rapidly and cost effectively synthesized and used for diagnostic procedures. The proposed Phase I effort is focused on demonstration of the feasibility of the proposed technology for detection of ovarian cancer-specific biomarkers. Successful completion of the Phase I will set the stage for further development and commercialization of the proposed technology to result in clinically relevant diagnostics.