Efficient, specific cross-linking and cleavage of DNA by stable, synthetic complementary oligodeoxynucleotides

"Antisense" oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) have generated significant recent interest as potential chemotherapeutic agents. Despite theoretical appeal, the potency necessary for animal or clinical trials has not yet been shown. We have been investigating the attachment of a side chain, bearing an alkylating electrophile, to ODNs as a method of achieving irreversible inactivation of the complementary target nucleic acid. These ODNs can, as shown here, function as exceptionally selective cleavage reagents for DNA.