RNA interference in skin indications
The present invention relates to RNAi constructs with improved tissue and cellular uptake characteristics and methods of use of these compounds in dermal applications.
1. A method for preventing, reducing, or inhibiting dermal scarring in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising:
administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount for treating compromised skin of a double stranded nucleic acid molecule comprising a guide strand, with a minimal length of 16 nucleotides, and a passenger strand forming a double stranded nucleic acid, having a double stranded region and a single stranded region, the double stranded region having 8-15 nucleotides in length, the single stranded region having 4-12 nucleotides in length, wherein the single stranded region comprises 2-12 phosphorothioate modifications, wherein at least 40% of the nucleotides of the double stranded nucleic acid molecule are modified, and wherein the double stranded nucleic acid molecule is directed against COX-2.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the double stranded nucleic acid molecule is administered on the skin of the subject in need thereof.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the double stranded nucleic acid molecule is administered by local injection.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the single stranded region contains 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 phosphorothioate modifications.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the wound is a result of elective surgery.