Aptamer Scientists have found that fragments of single stranded DNA or RNA bind target molecules. These so-called aptamers are usually less than 100 nucleotides in length. Aptamers are the nucleic acid equivalent of antibodies. From an initial pool of approximately 1014 unique sequences (aptamer candidates), iterative rounds of competitive selection and amplification yield a few select aptamers with the very best affinity and specificity characteristics for the target molecule. We dramatically improve this process by incorporating a mathematical model, optimization protocols, and automation in the form of pipetting robots. The success of this project will enable biotech laboratories to generate many aptamers quickly in the future. This new class of binding molecule may one day compete with antibodies presently in the marketplace.