| abstract |
It is an object of the present invention to oligonucleotide aptamers specifically bound to DNA binding sites of proteins, such as Spl and Spl-related proteins, that regulate genes with a record for costimulatory molecules such as CD28 and cytokines such as IL-2 and GMCSF. Oligonucleotides compete with the DNA strands of regulatory proteins that specifically regulate molecules, thereby modulating T. cell activation. This serves to modulate gene expression in preventing gene transcription. Aptamers are useful for therapy in diseases resulting from incorrect activation of T cells, such as psoriasis, type I diabetes (insulin dependent) diabetes mellitus, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune uveitis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, bowel inflammation (Crohn's and pus). catarrh of the colon), and septic shock. Aptamers are also useful in regulating normal T cell activation, such as allograft rejection.ŕ |