First Published in 1994, antisense oligonucleotides represent a new paradigm for drug delivery, employing a new class of chemicals to intervene in biological processes that have never before been used as sites for drug action. Biological applications of reactive oligonucleotide derivatives are considered as well.

First published in 1994, antisense oligonucleotides represent a new paradigm for drug delivery, employing a new class of chemicals to intervene in biological processes that have never before been used as sites for drug action. This book places antisense oligonucleotides in the context of drug discovery and development, reviewing the current status of research in antisense drugs and discussing strategies for future challenges and opportunities. It presents several antisense approaches, emphasizing the preparation, investigation, and applications of the reactive derivatives of antisense oligonucleotides. Specific topics covered include reagents able to modify nucleic acids, the methods for preparing these regeants, the reactions within the complexes with the target nucleic acids or oligonucleotides, and possible structural and kinetic problems. Biological applications of reactive oligonucleotide derivatives are considered as well.