SomaLogic Receives Innovation Award

The photoaptamers capture and bind target proteins, avoiding many of the challenges associated with antibody-based arrays. Photoaptamers are single-stranded nucleic acids (most often DNA) that assume three-dimensional shapes and bind their target molecules with high affinity and specificity.

Because they can also form specific covalent bonds with their target proteins, photoaptamers are ideal for array applications. Background proteins can be washed away under harsh conditions (reducing noise), and the amount of protein present can be assessed using a simple universal stain. Neither of these approaches can be used with antibodies. By eliminating the cross-talk associated with secondary antibodies, photoaptamers increase the number of simultaneous measurements on each clinical sample.

"This is the real strength of photoaptamer arrays,” observed Dr. Larry Gold, chairman and chief science officer of SomaLogic. "In the search for biomarkers and protein signatures, it is important not only to have high-quality assays but to assess simultaneously as many potential biomarkers as possible.” In addition to diagnostics that target significant unmet needs in clinical medicine, the company is developing strategic alliances to make its technology available to researchers in the academic, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical fields.




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