G-rich oligo aptamers and methods of modulating an immune response

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Aptamer oligonucleotides specifically bind to the DNA binding site of proteins such as Sp1 and Sp1-related proteins which regulate the genes which encode costimulatory molecules such as CD28 and cytokines such as IL-2 and GMCSF. The oligonucleotides compete with the DNA-binding sites of regulatory proteins which specifically regulate molecules to modulate T-cell activation. This serves to modulate gene expression by preventing transcription of the gene. Aptamers are administered to provide therapies for diseases which involve aberrant T-cell activation such as psoriasis Type I (insulin-dependent) , diabetes mellitus multiple sclerosis, autoimmune uveitis rheumatoid , arthritis, …