Applications of nucleic acid technology in the CNS

This review examines applications of nucleic acid technology in the form of catalytic nucleic acids (ribozymes and DNAzymes) and RNA interference (RNAi) in the CNS. The basic mechanism of catalytic nucleic acids and RNAi is reviewed, and potentials and problems highlighted. Recent advances in chemical modifications and delivery techniques are summarized. Applications in the CNS, including their use in primary neuronal cells, organotypic slice culture and the brain in vivo are further discussed.