| abstract |
The invention provides immunostimulatory compositions and methods for their use. In particular, the immunostimulatory compositions of the invention include RNA-like polymers that incorporate an immunostimulatory sequence motif and at least one chemical modification to confer improved stability against nuclease degradation and improved activity. Specific modifications involving phosphate linkages, nucleotide analogs, and combinations thereof are provided. Compositions of the invention optionally include an antigen and can be used to stimulate an immune response. Also provided are compositions and methods useful for treating a subject having an infection, a cancer, an allergic condition, or asthma. Modified oligoribonucleotide analogs of the invention are believed to stimulate Toll-like receptors TLR7 and TLR8. |