Method of modulating gene expression with reduced immunostimulatory response

摘要

The present invention provides a method of reducing the immunostimulatory effects of certain phosphorothioate oligonucleotides used to treat pathogen-mediated disease states and other medical conditions. Immunostimulatory effects of phosphorothioate oligonucleotides are reduced in accordance with the method of the invention by modifying at least one chemical structure within the phosphorothioate oligonucleotide to produce an immunostimulatory response-reducing phosphorothioate oligonucleotide, which is then administered to a mammal afflicted with the disease or condition being treated. The immune response of the mammal is also monitored in the method of the invention.