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Perspectives in antisense therapeutics

S Agrawal1, R P Iyer

  • 1Hybridon Inc, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.

Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|April 16, 1998
PubMed

Insights

This review covers mixed-backbone oligonucleotides (oligos) as second-generation antisense therapeutics. It examines their pharmacokinetics and toxicology for improved gene expression modulation and therapeutic development.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Drug Development

Background:

  • Oligonucleotides (oligos) are key tools for modulating gene expression in research and therapy.
  • First-generation antisense analogs, oligodeoxynucleoside phosphorothioates, are in clinical trials.
  • Improving in vivo stability, disposition, and pharmacokinetics is crucial for therapeutic oligo development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the pharmacokinetics and toxicology of mixed-backbone oligos.
  • To evaluate second-generation antisense therapeutics for improved properties.
  • To provide an overview of oligo administration routes and their effects.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on mixed-backbone oligos.
  • Analysis of pharmacokinetic and toxicological data from various administration routes.
  • Evaluation of chemical modifications for enhanced antisense activity.

Main Results:

  • Mixed-backbone oligos represent a second-generation approach to antisense therapeutics.
  • Pharmacokinetics and toxicology vary with administration route (IV, IP, SC, oral).
  • Chemical modifications aim to enhance biological activity and stability.

Conclusions:

  • Mixed-backbone oligos show promise as advanced antisense therapeutics.
  • Understanding their pharmacokinetic and toxicological profiles is essential for clinical application.
  • Further research into oligo modifications can optimize therapeutic potential.

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