Journal of Proteomics & Bioinformatics
Open Access
ISSN: 0974-276X
ISSN: 0974-276X
Nebojsa Janjic
SomaLogic, Inc., USA
Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Proteomics Bioinform
Statement of the Problem: The ability to fold into distinct three-dimensional structures is the basis of high affinity and specificity characteristic of aptamer binding to their targets. We have recently introduced base modifications that increase chemical diversity of functional groups front-loaded in randomized nucleic acid libraries from which aptamers are selected. Such modifications have allowed us to identify high-affinity aptamers to many protein targets previously considered â??difficultâ? with conventional nucleic acid libraries. At the same time, our ability to predict the structures of modified aptamers with conventional nucleic acid folding rules was severely compromised, suggesting new rules for folding. Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: We examined, published structures of sixteen aptamers co-crystallized with their protein targets, including three aptamers with base modifications we reported recently. Findings: In contrast to small molecules, which are entirely encaged by aptamers, proteins present large surfaces with distinct features that are recognized by complementary surfaces on aptamers. The size of these interaction surfaces is comparable to those observed with antibodies, although for aptamers, the size range is wider on both small and large extremes. The highly flexible phosphodiester backbone allows assembly of known as well as novel nucleic acid motifs into precise three-dimensional structures that orient often discontiguous aptamer regions toward their protein targets in a manner that creates surfaces with exquisite shape complementarity. Base modifications with hydrophobic side chains allow occupancy of distinctly hydrophobic pockets on proteins and create novel structural elements that illustrate the profound role modified nucleotides play in both folding and binding. Conclusion & Significance: These observations provide compelling structural rationale for the observed high affinity and specificity with which aptamers recognize their protein targets, and show us that the lexicon of structural features accessible to nucleic acid ligands can be vastly expanded with chemical modifications of nucleic acid libraries.
Nebojsa Janjic has been Chief Science Officer at SomaLogic, Inc. since January 2009. Prior to joining SomaLogic, he was a Founder and CSO at Replidyne, Inc., a Biotechnology company focusing on the development of new small-molecule antibacterial agents. Prior to Replidyne, he was Senior Director of drug discovery at NeXstar Pharmaceuticals, where his contributions include the discovery and early development of Macugen, the first aptamer to receive FDA approval and the first VEGF inhibitor developed for the treatment for macular degeneration. As CSO at SomaLogic, he is involved in developing a new generation of modified aptamers and identifying opportunities for their use in science and medicine. He has received his Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology and PhD in Physical Organic Chemistry from the University of Washington in Seattle and completed his Postdoctoral training at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla as a Cancer Research Institute Fellow.