Development of an RNA aptamer that acquires binding capacity against HIV-1 Tat protein via G-quadruplex formation in response to potassium ions.

For the development of K+-responsive RNA aptamers, we proposed a new general strategy that makes use of a G-quadruplex formation in response to K+. This is the first report of developing an RNA aptamer that demonstrates ON/OFF switching of its target-binding activity by sensing the addition/removal of K+.