Abstract: The invention relates to improved double-stranded RNAi constructs (sometimes referred to as “solo-rxRNA”) and uses thereof. The construct comprises a structure formed in some aspects of the invention by two identical single-stranded polynucleotides, with the structure having two double-stranded stem regions (each having less than 21 base pairs) and a loop or bulge having about 4 to 11 nucleotides on each strand. The construct is resistant to cleavage by Dicer or other Dicer-like RNase III enzymes and is capable of being loaded into a RISC complex to effect RNA interference. In addition, the nucleotides of the present hairpin constructs may be modified to greatly enhance functionality, such as stability and specificity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to RNAi constructs with improved tissue and cellular uptake characteristics and methods of use of these compounds in dermal applications.

Abstract: Neutral lipid formulations for nucleic acid delivery are provided according to the invention. The neutral lipid formulations include hydrophobically modified polynucleotides and fat mixtures. Methods of using the neutral lipid formulations are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to improved RNAi constructs and uses thereof. The construct has a double stranded region of 19-49 nucleotides, preferably 25, 26, or 27 nucleotides, and preferably blunt-ended. The construct has selective minimal modifications to confer an optimal balance of biological activity, toxicity, stability, and target gene specificity. For example, the sense strand may be modified (e.g., one or both ends of the sense strand is/are modified by four 2?-O-methyl groups), such that the construct is not cleaved by Dicer or other RNAse III, and the entire length of the antisense strand is loaded into RISC. In addition, the antisense strand may also be modified by 2?-O-methyl group at the 2nd 5?-end nucleotide to greatly reduce off-target silencing. The constructs of the invention largely avoids the interferon response and sequence-independent apoptosis in mammalian cells, exhibits better serum stability, and enhanced target specificity.