Although many smart probes for precise tumor recognition
have been
reported, the challenge of “on-target, off-tumor” remains.
Therefore, we herein report the fabrication of a series of allosterically
tunable DNA nanosensing-circles (NSCs). The recognition affinity of
NSCs is programmed through sensitivity to tumor microenvironment (TME)
hallmarks such as small molecules, acidity, or oncoproteins. Because
of their special programming conditions and active targeting capabilities,
NSCs can overcome the obstacles noted above, thus achieving precise
tumor recognition. Results from in vitro analysis
demonstrated that NSCs obtain their recognition ability through allosteric
regulation after sensing TME hallmarks. Furthermore, in vivo imaging indicated that NSCs enable precise tumor imaging. These
results demonstrate that our NSCs will be promising tools for precise
tumor imaging and therapy.