The cellular delivery of antisense oligonucleotides and ribozymes

The design and development of antisense oligonucleotides and ribozymes for the treatment of diseases arising from genetic abnormalities has become a r eal possibility over the past few years. Improvements in oligonucleotide ch emistry have led to the synthesis of nucleic acids that are relatively stab le in the biological milieu. However, advances in cellular targeting and in tracellular delivery will probably lead to more widespread clinical applica tions. This review looks at recent advances in the in vitro and in vivo del ivery of antisense oligodeoxynucleotides and ribozymes.