Peptide Aptamers: A Novel Potential Tool Against Viruses

Abstract

Purpose: Viral infections are still a significant global health concern, causing serious diseases and high mortality rates, highlighting the urgent need for effective antiviral strategies. Peptide aptamers consisting of a short peptide sequence embedded inside a scaffold protein can be an attractive alternative to the current anti-viral strategy. In the review article, we aimed to compile the peptide aptamers developed against viruses so far, both as therapeutic and diagnostic tools. Methods: An extensive literature review was conducted to compile studies reporting peptide aptamers developed against human, animal, and plant viruses and the published data was analysed to assess aptamer design strategies, scaffold usage, viral or host targets, mechanisms of action, and applications in therapy and diagnostics. Results: This study identifies several peptide aptamers designed to specifically bind to viral disease-associated targets, such as cell surface receptors or signalling molecules. By blocking or modulating the activity of these targets, peptide aptamers can serve as targeted therapeutics for various viral infections. Peptide aptamers can also be utilised as diagnostic probes for detecting and quantifying specific biomarkers, such as viral proteins, either in the blood (serum or plasma) or infected cells. Conclusion: Overall, peptide aptamers present a promising alternative for therapeutic and diagnostic applications due to their unique properties and capabilities, warranting further translational and clinical investigation. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2025.