Inhibition of ICAM-I gene expression by antisense 2′,4′-BNA oligonucleotides

We have previously reported that 2'-0,4'-C-methylene bridged nucleic acid (2',4'-BNA) had unprecedented binding affinity towards its complementary RNA. We reported herein that the antisense 2',4'-BNA oligonucleotides showed potent inhibitory effect on gene expression of Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-l (ICAM-1) in living cells. The contribution of RNase H to this antisense effect and adequate stability of 2',4'BNA oligonucleotides to enzymatic degradation were also demonstrated.