The present invention relates to compositions and methods which enhance the transport
of nucleic acids, especially oligonucleotides at various sites in the alimentary
canal of an animal. The methods and compositions enhance the transport of oligonucleotides
across the mucosa of the alimentary canal via the use of one or more penetration
enhancers. The invention features the use of various fatty acids, bile salts, chelating
agents and other penetration enhancers, as well as carrier compounds, to enhance
the stability of nucleic acids and/or their transport across and/or into cells
of the alimentary canal. In one preferred embodiment, the compositions and methods
of the invention are utilized to effect the oral delivery of an antisense oligonucleotide
to an animal in order to modulate the expression of a gene in the animal for investigative,
therapeutic or prophylactic purposes.
