title: Oligonucleotide based-strategies for allergy with special reference to siRNA.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Allergic diseases are a significant global health care problem. Current pharmacological approaches address symptoms but do not alter the underlying immune dysregulation. Current allergen-specific immunotherapy has several drawbacks. Therefore, approaches that attenuate allergic responses safely and effectively at the level of upstream causative events are desirable. Oligonuleotide-based therapies [CpG DNA, antisense oligonucleotides, and small interfering RNA (siRNA)] are promising approaches.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  We review developments in oligonucleotide-based therapies and the potential of siRNA for treating allergy.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Strategies with oligonucleotides basically aim to reduce T helper type 2 (Th2) responses. It is controversial whether the reduction of Th2 responses does, in fact, attenuate allergic diseases. Increased understanding of allergic mechanisms will enhance the efficacy of oligonucleotide-based therapy.
authors.affiliation: University of Western Ontario, University Hospital C9 - 136, Department of Surgery, London, Ontario, N6A 5A5, Canada.
authors.forename: Motohiko
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Suzuki
authors.forename: Xiufen
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Zheng
authors.forename: Xusheng
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Zhang
authors.forename: Thomas E
authors.initials: TE
authors.lastname: Ichim
authors.forename: Marianne E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Beduhn
authors.forename: Weiping
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Min