We have discovered DNA aptamer sequences that bind to different alpha-synuclein morphologies. Notably, we have found one sequence that binds to alpha-synuclein monomers and inhibits the formation of larger oligomers and fibrils when tested in vitro. We have packaged this aptamer in a vehicle that was capable of crossing the blood brain barrier and tested its binding to alpha synuclein in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease. Using immunofluorescence, we were able to confirm both the delivery of the fluorescently labelled aptamer and that the aptamer co-localizes with an antibody specific for phosphorylated alpha synuclein monomer.
PCT application number: PCT/CA2018/051335 (filed Oct. 22, 2018)
International Publication Number: WO2019/079887
US application number: 16/758,090 (filed Apr. 22, 2020)
CA application number: 3079909 (filed Apr. 21, 2020)
Inventor(s): DeRosa, Maria Cynthia; Holahan, Matthew Richard; McConnell, Erin Marie; Ventura, Katelyn Victoria; Callahan, Joshua Parker; Hunt, Vernon Harold Daniel
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