RNA-based probes: Spinach aptamers

This lecture delves into the engineering and application of RNA-based probes, focusing on Spinach aptamers as GFP-mimics of RNAs. Starting with a refresher on GFP chromophore maturation, it progresses to discussing nucleic acid aptamers, SELEX technology, and the evolution of Spinach as a GFP-mimic of RNA. The lecture explores in vitro transcription, cDNA, aptamer selection, and characterization, emphasizing the critical evaluation of the manuscript. It also covers the tracking of RNA with Spinach, comparing it with GFP fusion protein design. The session concludes with a critique of experimental data and movies related to RNA localization and export, highlighting the key learning outcomes and applications of RNA-based probes.