There is provided a method of modulating the function of a transcription factor by administering an effective amount of an oligonucleotide containing optimal nucleotide binding site for the transcription factor. A therapeutic agent having an effective amount of an oligonucleotide for modulating function of a transcription factor and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is also provided. Also provided is a treatment of patients having illnesses in which the activation of transcription factors plays a role by administering to a patient an effective amount of an oligonucleotide which competitively binds the related transcription factor.