DNA Windmill Probe for Multiplexed mRNA Detection and Cell Type Discrimination

Accurate cancer diagnosis especially early diagnosis is of great importance for prompt therapy and elevated survival rate. mRNAs are widely used as biomarkers for cancer identification and treatment. mRNA expression levels are highly associated with cancer stage and malignant progression. Nevertheless, single type mRNA detection is insufficient and unreliable. Herein, we developed a DNA nano-windmill probe for in situ multiplexed mRNAs detection and imaging in this paper. The probe is designed to simultaneously target four types of mRNA through wind blades. Importantly, recognition of targets is independent from each other, which further facilitate cell type discrimination. The probe can specifically distinguish cancer cell lines from normal cells. In addition, it can identify changes in mRNA expression levels in living cells. The current strategy enriches the toolbox for improving the accuracy of cancer diagnosis and therapeutic solutions.

Automated summary

Accurate cancer diagnosis, especially early diagnosis, is crucial for prompt therapy and increased survival rate. mRNAs are widely used as biomarkers for cancer identification and treatment. mRNA expression levels are closely associated with cancer stage and malignant progression. However, single type mRNA detection is insufficient and unreliable. In this paper, a DNA nano-windmill probe was developed for in situ multiplexed mRNAs detection and imaging. The probe targets four types of mRNA simultaneously through wind blades, enabling independent recognition and cell type discrimination. The probe can specifically distinguish cancer cell lines from normal cells and identify changes in mRNA expression levels in living cells. This strategy enriches the toolbox for improving the accuracy of cancer diagnosis and therapeutic solutions.