Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for inhibiting expression of a target gene in a cell. The process comprises introduction of double-stranded tripartite RNAi constructs into the cells and reducing the expression of the corresponding messenger RNA in the cells. The constructs, which may be packaged in or delivered as sequestered RNAi constructs, differ from the canonical siRNA in that they comprise a tripartite structure which follows the general formula of having (1) an RNAi core (either native or abbreviated), (2) one or more terminal moieties attached to the RNAi core and optionally (3) a linker between the RNAi core and the terminal moiety.

Abstract: The invention relates to an input device having multifunctional keys, wherein the different functions are triggered by varying the pressure on the keys or by varying the depth to which the key is depressed or the distance it is moved (see FIG. 3). The input device requires substantially fewer keys than a standard qwerty keyboard to input data and requires less physical space. In certain instances the keyboard can be operated with one hand.

Abstract: Methods for delivering ligands to a cell by using light to activate fluorescent ligands causing their release from endosomes. The instant methods thus increasing the efficiency of ligands, e.g. in vitro or at localized sites within a subject. The invention provides for the release of ligands by shining a light source on a cell to promote release of ligands into the cell where they can effect their function.

Abstract: The present invention concerns the discovery that proteins encoded by a family of vertebrate genes, termed here signalin-related genes, which are involved in signal transduction induced by members of the TGF? superfamily. The present invention makes available compositions and methods that can be utilized, for example to generate and/or maintain an array of different vertebrate tissue both in vitro and in vivo.

Abstract: The oligonucleotide compositions of the present invention make use of combinations of oligonucleotides. In one aspect, the invention features an oligonucleotide composition including at least 2 different oligonucleotides targeted to a target gene. This invention also provides methods of inhibiting protein synthesis in a cell and methods of identifying oligonucleotide compositions that inhibit synthesis of a protein in a cell.

Abstract: Antisense sequences, including duplex RNAi compositions, which possess improved properties over those taught in the prior art are disclosed. The invention provides optimized antisense oligomer compositions and method for making and using the both in in vitro systems and therapeutically. The invention also provides methods of making and using the improved antisense oligomer compositions.

Abstract: The present invention describes novel methods for the stabilization of mRNA. These alterations increase stability of mRNA and enable its use in sense RNA therapy to transiantly express proteins in a cell. Accordingly, the present invention is directed to methods for making such modifications, compositions comprising such modifications, and the use of such compositions in treating disease states.

Abstract: Antisense oligomers which possess improved properties over those taught in the prior art are disclosed. The instant methods enable the enhanced uptake of oligomers, increased affinity of the oligomers for their target molecules, increased resistance of oligomers to nucleases, decreased toxicity. The invention provides optimized antisense oligomer compositions and method for making and using the both in in vitro systems and therapeutically. The invention also provides methods of making and using the improved antisense oligomer compositions.

Abstract: Methods for delivering ligands to a cell by using light to activate fluorescent ligands causing their release from endosomes. The instant methods thus increasing the efficiency of ligands, e.g. in vitro or at localized sites within a subject. The invention provides for the release of ligands by shining a light source on a cell to promote release of ligands into the cell where they can effect their function.

Abstract: The present invention concerns the discovery that proteins encoded by a family of vertebrate genes, termed here signalin-related genes, which are involved in signal transduction induced by members of the TGF&bgr; superfamily. The present invention makes available compositions and methods that can be utilized, for example to generate and/or maintain an array of different vertebrate tissue both in vitro and in vivo.

Abstract: The present invention concerns the discovery that proteins encoded by a family of vertebrate genes, termed here signalin-related genes, which are involved in signal transduction induced by members of the TGF&bgr; superfamily. The present invention makes available compositions and methods that can be utilized, for example to generate and/or maintain an array of different vertebrate tissue both in vitro and in vivo.