Aptamer based biosensor platforms for neurotransmitters analysis

Neurotransmitters control the signal transmission in chemical synapses via their release from the pre-synaptic neuron and subsequent binding and activation of receptors in the postsynaptic neuron. The resulting paracrine signaling can be understood as the chemical language of information processing in the nervous systems, which is fundamental for brain function and dysfunction during neurological diseases. The ability to measure neurotransmitter concentrations with high spatiotemporal resolution is therefore substantial to understand the full complexity of neuronal communication. Aptamer based biosensors are an increasingly important tool to achieve this goal since these synthetic receptors can be easily tailored for specific tasks, different from other bioreceptors. In this review, we give an overview of the most relevant neurotransmitters, their function, and the respective aptamer sequences for their selective binding but also discuss current developments in selection technology for other small mole-cules. Within our considerations, we reflect analytical characteristics such as selectivity, limit of detec-tion, sensitivity, multiplexing capabilities, and put particular attention to the spatial and temporal resolution of recently reported aptamer sensors. Finally, we discuss challenges for the development of neurotransmitter sensitive neural probes, missing features for ideal aptamer sensors, and future di-rections for the development of neurotransmitter sensors.(c) 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Neurotransmitters control signal transmission in chemical synapses by being released from the pre-synaptic neuron and binding to receptors in the postsynaptic neuron. Measurement of neurotransmitter concentrations with high spatiotemporal resolution is essential for understanding brain function and dysfunction in neurological diseases. Aptamer based biosensors are a valuable tool in achieving this goal, offering advantages in tailoring receptors for specific tasks.