Antisense DNA and RNA strategies: new approaches to therapy

This review describes the results both in vitro and in vivo of the application of small DNA molecules or their analogues to target sequences in messenger RNA (mRNA) or DNA. Biological effects on the replication of viruses and the expression of oncogenes are recorded. At the same time, RNA catalytic sequences ('ribozymes') have been used to target and cleave mRNA sequences. Before these treatments can be confidently applied to clinical situations, further work is needed on their stability, cellular uptake and selection of their target, and the mechanism of their action also needs to be understood and controlled. In this way, it may be possible to guarantee specific effects on gene or cell type. The review describes the current research and state of development.