Abstract: The present invention pertains to the use of at least one abasic modification within the first 8 nucleotide positions of the 5? region of the antisense strand of a small interfering nucleic acid (siNA) molecule for reducing off-target effects. Provided are suitable modified siNAs, compositions and methods for producing respective siNAs, as well as kits comprising respective siNAs.

Abstract: The invention pertains to the use of an apoptosis inducing combination of at least a. a first expression modulating compound silencing the expression of at least a first target gene involved in apoptosis and b. a second expression modulating compound silencing the expression of at least a second target gene involved in apoptosis as a positive control in expression modulating assays. Also provided are suitable methods, kits and compositions.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to the use of at least one abasic modification within the first 8 nucleotide positions of the 5? region of the antisense strand of a small interfering nucleic acid (siNA) molecule for reducing off-target effects. Provided are suitable modified siNAs, compositions and methods for producing respective siNAs, as well as kits comprising respective siNAs.

Abstract: A transfection method of introducing sample molecules into cells is provided, comprising: (a) using a substrate comprising at least one sample spot area which is surrounded by an hydrophobic area; (b) wherein sample molecules are applied to said at least one sample spot area, thereby placing said sample molecules in the discrete location of said sample spot area; (c) applying cells to be transfected onto the substrate and incubation under appropriate conditions for entry of the sample molecules into said cells; (d) whereby at least a portion of said sample molecules are introduced into said cells.