ANTISENSE MODULATION OF FIBROBLAST GROWTH FACTOR RECEPTOR 4 EXPRESSION

Abstract

Provided herein are methods, compounds, and compositions for reducing expression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) mRNA and protein in an animal. Such methods, compounds, and compositions are useful to treat, prevent, delay, or ameliorate a metabolic disease, or a symptom thereof.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/631,437, filed Sep. 28, 2012, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/525,197, filed Jun. 15, 2012, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/497,921, filed Jun. 16, 2011, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

SEQUENCE LISTING

The present application is being filed along with a Sequence Listing in electronic format. The Sequence Listing is provided as a file entitled BIOL0157USC2SEQ_ST25.txt created Dec. 4, 2014, which is 160 Kb in size. The information in the electronic format of the sequence listing is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

Provided herein are methods, compounds, and compositions for reducing expression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) mRNA and protein in an animal. Such methods, compounds, and compositions are useful, for example, to treat, prevent, delay or ameliorate diseases associated with metabolic disorders, particularly disorders associated with obesity.

BACKGROUND

Obesity is considered a long-term metabolic disease. There are several serious medical sequelae related to obesity. There are over 1 billion overweight individuals worldwide with 100 million clinically obese. The increasing health care costs of treating obesity related diseases in the US alone are estimated at over $100 billion annually. Current methods for treating obesity include behavioral modification, diet, surgery (gastroplasty), administering pharmaceutical agents that block appetite stimulating signals or absorption of nutrients (fat), and administering agents that increase thermogenesis or fat metabolism. Some of these methods have disadvantages in that they rely on patient resolve, are invasive, or have unwanted side effects. An understanding of the mechanisms by which obesity is regulated may provide important therapeutic information.

Obesity is frequently associated with insulin resistance and together constitutes risk factors for later development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Insulin resistance occurs well before development of type 2 diabetes, and insulin is overproduced to compensate for the insulin resistance and to maintain normal glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes ensues, as the pancreas can no longer produce enough insulin to maintain normal glucose levels. Early stages of type 2 diabetes are associated with elevated levels of insulin but as the disease progresses the pancreas may fail to produce insulin, resulting in increased blood glucose levels. Diabetes is a significant risk factor for both heart disease and stroke and is the leading cause of blindness and end-stage renal failure.

Diabetes is a disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to deficient insulin action that may result from reduced insulin production or insulin resistance or both. Diabetes mellitus is a polygenic disorder affecting a significant portion of the people in the world. It is divided into two types. In type I diabetes, or insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), patients produce little or no insulin, the hormone that regulates glucose utilization. In type 2 diabetes, or noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), patients often have plasma insulin levels that are the same compared to nondiabetic humans; however, these patients have developed a resistance to the insulin stimulating effect of glucose and lipid metabolism in the main insulin-sensitive tissues, i.e., muscle, liver and adipose tissues, and the plasma insulin levels are insufficient to overcome the pronounced insulin resistance. Additionally, glucotoxicity, which results from long-term hyperglycemia, induces tissue-dependent insulin resistance (Nawano et al., Am. J. Physiol. Endocrinol. Metab., 278, E535-543) exacerbating the disease. Type 2 diabetes accounts for over 90% of all diabetes cases. It is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia leading to secondary complications such as neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, hypertriglyceridemia, obesity, and other cardiovascular diseases generally referred to as metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome is a combination of medical disorders that increase one's risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The symptoms, including high blood pressure, high triglycerides, decreased HDL and obesity, tend to appear together in some individuals. Metabolic syndrome is known under various other names, such as (metabolic) syndrome X, insulin resistance syndrome or Reaven's syndrome.

Diabetes and obesity (sometimes now collectively referred to as “diabesity”) are interrelated in that obesity is known to exacerbate the pathology of diabetes and greater than 60% of diabetics are obese. Most human obesity is associated with insulin resistance and leptin resistance. In fact, it has been suggested that obesity may have an even greater impact on insulin action than diabetes itself (Sindelka et al., Physiol Res., 51, 85-91). Additionally, several compounds on the market for the treatment of diabetes are known to induce weight gain, a very undesirable side effect to the treatment of this disease. Therefore, a compound that has the potential to treat both diabetes and obesity would provide a significant improvement over current treatments.

Fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (also known as FGF receptor-4, TKF; tyrosine kinase related to fibroblast growth factor receptor; hydroxyaryl-protein kinase; tyrosylprotein kinase; Fgfr4; FGFR-4; FGFR4; CD334, FGFR4_HUMAN and JTK2) has high affinity for the acidic and/or basic fibroblast growth factors. (Armstrong et al., Genes Chromosomes Cancer, 4, 94-98).

Although FGFRs generally have been shown to have wide distribution throughout the body, to date, FGFR4 has only been found in a few tissues. Among a wide variety of cells and tissues tested, including human lymphocytes and macrophages, FGFR4 was found to be expressed in the lung and in some tumors of lung origin as well as in malignancies not derived from lung tissues. (Holtrich et al., Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci., 88, 10411-10415). FGFR4 has also been found to be expressed in the liver and in adipose tissues. (Patel et al., JCEM, 90(2), 1226-1232). FGFR4 has also been found to be expressed in certain carcinoma cell lines. (Bange et al., Cancer Res., 62, 840-847).

Additionally, FGFR4 has been shown to play a role in systemic lipid and glucose homeostasis. FGFR4-deficient mice on a normal diet exhibited features of metabolic syndrome that include increase mass of insulin resistance, in addition to hypercholesterolemia. FGFR4 deficiency was shown to alleviate high-fat diet-induced fatty liver in a certain obese mouse model, which is also a correlate of metabolic syndrome. Restoration of FGFR4, specifically in hepatocytes of FGFR4 deficient mice, decrease plasma lipid level and restored the high fat diet-induced fatty liver but failed to restore glucose tolerance and sensitivity to insulin. (Huang et al., Diabetes, 56, 2501-2510).

Antisense inhibition of FGFR4 provides a unique advantage over traditional small molecule inhibitors in that antisense inhibitors do not rely on competitive binding of the compound to the protein and inhibit activity directly by reducing the expression of FGFR4. A representative United States patent that teaches FGFR4 antisense inhibitors includes US. Pat. Publication No. US2010/0292140, of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Antisense technology is emerging as an effective means for reducing the expression of certain gene products and may therefore prove to be uniquely useful in a number of therapeutic, diagnostic, and research applications for the modulation of FGFR4.

There is a currently a lack of acceptable options for treating metabolic disorders. It is therefore an object herein to provide compounds and methods for the treatment of such diseases and disorder. This invention relates to the discovery of novel, highly potent inhibitors of FGFR4 gene expression.

All documents, or portions of documents, cited in this application, including, but not limited to, patents, patent applications, articles, books, and treatises, are hereby expressly incorporated-by-reference for the portions of the document discussed herein, as well as in their entirety.

SUMMARY

Provided herein are methods, compounds, and compositions for modulating expression of FGFR4 and treating, preventing, delaying or ameliorating diseases associated with metabolic disorders, particularly disorders associated with obesity and/or a symptom thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive described herein, as claimed. Herein, the use of the singular includes the plural unless specifically stated otherwise. As used herein, the use of “or” means “and/or” unless stated otherwise. Furthermore, the use of the term “including” as well as other forms, such as “includes” and “included”, is not limiting. Also, terms such as “element” or “component” encompass both elements and components comprising one unit and elements and components that comprise more than one subunit, unless specifically stated otherwise.

The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described. All documents, or portions of documents, cited in this application, including, but not limited to, patents, patent applications, articles, books, and treatises, are hereby expressly incorporated-by-reference for the portions of the document discussed herein, as well as in their entirety.

DEFINITIONS

Unless specific definitions are provided, the nomenclature utilized in connection with, and the procedures and techniques of, analytical chemistry, synthetic organic chemistry, and medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry described herein are those well known and commonly used in the art. Standard techniques can be used for chemical synthesis, and chemical analysis. Where permitted, all documents, or portions of documents, cited in this application, including, but not limited to, all patents, applications, published applications and other journal publications, GENBANK Accession Numbers and associated sequence information obtainable through databases such as National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and other data referred to throughout in the disclosure herein are incorporated by reference for the portions of the document discussed herein, as well as in their entirety.

Unless otherwise indicated, the following terms have the following meanings:

“2′-O-methoxyethyl” (also 2′-MOE and 2′-O(CH₂)₂—OCH₃) refers to an O-methoxy-ethyl modification of the 2′ position of a furosyl ring. A 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar is a modified sugar.

“2′-O-methoxyethyl nucleotide” means a nucleotide comprising a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar moiety.

“3′ target site” refers to the nucleotide of a target nucleic acid which is complementary to the 3′-most nucleotide of a particular antisense compound.

“5′ target site” refers to the nucleotide of a target nucleic acid which is complementary to the 5′-most nucleotide of a particular antisense compound.

“5-methylcytosine” means a cytosine modified with a methyl group attached to the 5′ position. A 5-methylcytosine is a modified nucleobase.

“About” means within ±10% of a value. For example, if it is stated, “a marker may be increased by about 50%”, it is implied that the marker may be increased between 45%-55%.

“Active pharmaceutical agent” means the substance or substances in a pharmaceutical composition that provide a therapeutic benefit when administered to an individual. For example, in certain embodiments an antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4 is an active pharmaceutical agent.

“Active target region” or “target region” means a region to which one or more active antisense compounds is targeted. “Active antisense compounds” means antisense compounds that reduce target nucleic acid levels or protein levels.

“Adipogenesis” means the development of fat cells from preadipocytes. “Lipogenesis” means the production or formation of fat, either fatty degeneration or fatty infiltration.

“Adipose tissue” or “body fat” or “fat depot” is loose connective tissue composed of adipocytes. Two types of adipose tissue exist: white adipose tissue (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT).

“Adiposity” or “Obesity” refers to the state of being obese or an excessively high amount of body fat or adipose tissue in relation to lean body mass. The amount of body fat includes concern for both the distribution of fat throughout the body and the size and mass of the adipose tissue deposits. Body fat distribution can be estimated by skin-fold measures, waist-to-hip circumference ratios, or techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more are considered obese. The term “Obesity” as used herein includes conditions where there is an increase in body fat beyond the physical requirement as a result of excess accumulation of adipose tissue in the body. The term “obesity” includes, but is not limited to, the following conditions: adult-onset obesity; alimentary obesity; endogenous or inflammatory obesity; endocrine obesity; familial obesity; hyperinsulinar obesity; hyperplastic-hypertrophic obesity; hypogonadal obesity; hypothyroid obesity; lifelong obesity; morbid obesity and exogenous obesity.

“Administered concomitantly” refers to the co-administration of two agents in any manner in which the pharmacological effects of both are manifest in the patient at the same time. Concomitant administration does not require that both agents be administered in a single pharmaceutical composition, in the same dosage form, or by the same route of administration. The effects of both agents need not manifest themselves at the same time. The effects need only be overlapping for a period of time and need not be coextensive.

“Administering” means providing an agent to an animal, and includes, but is not limited to, administering by a medical professional and self-administering.

“Agent” means an active substance that can provide a therapeutic benefit when administered to an animal. “First Agent” means a therapeutic compound provided herein. For example, a first agent can be an antisense oligonucleotide targeting FGFR4. “Second agent” means a second therapeutic compound described herein (e.g. a second antisense oligonucleotide targeting FGFR4) and/or a non-FGFR4 therapeutic compound.

“Amelioration” refers to a lessening of at least one indicator, sign, or symptom of an associated disease, disorder, or condition. The severity of indicators can be determined by subjective or objective measures, which are known to those skilled in the art.

“Animal” refers to a human or non-human animal, including, but not limited to, mice, rats, rabbits, dogs, cats, pigs, and non-human primates, including, but not limited to, monkeys and chimpanzees.

“Antisense activity” means any detectable or measurable activity attributable to the hybridization of an antisense compound to its target nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, antisense activity is a decrease in the amount or expression of a target nucleic acid or protein encoded by such target nucleic acid.

“Antisense compound” means an oligomeric compound that is capable of undergoing hybridization to a target nucleic acid through hydrogen bonding.

“Antisense inhibition” means reduction of target nucleic acid levels or target protein levels in the presence of an antisense compound complementary to a target nucleic acid compared to target nucleic acid levels or target protein levels in the absence of the antisense compound.

“Antisense oligonucleotide” means a single-stranded oligonucleotide having a nucleobase sequence that permits hybridization to a corresponding region or segment of a target nucleic acid.

“Bicyclic sugar” means a furosyl ring modified by the bridging of two non-geminal ring atoms. A bicyclic sugar is a modified sugar.

“Bicyclic nucleic acid” or “BNA” refers to a nucleoside or nucleotide wherein the furanose portion of the nucleoside or nucleotide includes a bridge connecting two carbon atoms on the furanose ring, thereby forming a bicyclic ring system.

“Biomarker” is meant to designate a gene or protein or protein fragment which is indicative of the effect of an FGFR4 inhibitor. That means the “biomarker” is used as a detection agent.

“Cap structure” or “terminal cap moiety” means chemical modifications, which have been incorporated at either terminus of an antisense compound.

“Chemically distinct region” refers to a region of an antisense compound that is in some way chemically different than another region of the same antisense compound. For example, a region having 2′-O-methoxyethyl nucleotides is chemically distinct from a region having nucleotides without 2′-O-methoxyethyl modifications.

“Chimeric antisense compound” means an antisense compound that has at least two chemically distinct regions.

“Co-administration” means administration of two or more agents to an individual. The two or more agents can be in a single pharmaceutical composition, or can be in separate pharmaceutical compositions. Each of the two or more agents can be administered through the same or different routes of administration. Co-administration encompasses parallel or sequential administration.

“Cholesterol” is a sterol molecule found in the cell membranes of all animal tissues. Cholesterol must be transported in an animal's blood plasma by lipoproteins including very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), intermediate density lipoprotein (IDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and high density lipoprotein (HDL). “Plasma cholesterol” refers to the sum of all lipoproteins (VDL, IDL, LDL, HDL) esterified and/or non-esterified cholesterol present in the plasma or serum.

“Complementarity” means the capacity for pairing between nucleobases of a first nucleic acid and a second nucleic acid.

“cEt” or “constrained ethyl” means a bicyclic sugar moiety comprising a bridge connecting the 4′-carbon and the 2′-carbon, wherein the bridge has the formula: 4′-CH(CH₃)—O-2′.

“Constrained ethyl nucleoside” (also cEt nucleoside) means a nucleoside comprising a bicyclic sugar moiety comprising a 4′-CH(CH₃)—O-2′ bridge.

“Contiguous nucleobases” means nucleobases immediately adjacent to each other.

“Deoxyribonucleotide” means a nucleotide having a hydrogen at the 2′ position of the sugar portion of the nucleotide. Deoxyribonucleotides may be modified with any of a variety of substituents.

“Diabetes mellitus” or “diabetes” is a syndrome characterized by disordered metabolism and abnormally high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) resulting from insufficient levels of insulin or reduced insulin sensitivity. The characteristic symptoms are excessive urine production (polyuria) due to high blood glucose levels, excessive thirst and increased fluid intake (polydipsia) attempting to compensate for increased urination, blurred vision due to high blood glucose effects on the eye's optics, unexplained weight loss, and lethargy.

“Diabetic dyslipidemia” or “type 2 diabetes with dyslipidemia” means a condition characterized by Type 2 diabetes, reduced HDL-C, elevated triglycerides, and elevated small, dense LDL particles.

“Diluent” means an ingredient in a composition that lacks pharmacological activity, but is pharmaceutically necessary or desirable. For example, the diluent in an injected composition can be a liquid, e.g. saline solution.

“Dyslipidemia” refers to a disorder of lipid and/or lipoprotein metabolism, including lipid and/or lipoprotein overproduction or deficiency. Dyslipidemias may be manifested by elevation of lipids such as cholesterol and triglycerides as well as lipoproteins such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

“Dosage unit” means a form in which a pharmaceutical agent is provided, e.g. pill, tablet, or other dosage unit known in the art. In certain embodiments, a dosage unit is a vial containing lyophilized antisense oligonucleotide. In certain embodiments, a dosage unit is a vial containing reconstituted antisense oligonucleotide.

“Dose” means a specified quantity of a pharmaceutical agent provided in a single administration, or in a specified time period. In certain embodiments, a dose can be administered in one, two, or more boluses, tablets, or injections. For example, in certain embodiments where subcutaneous administration is desired, the desired dose requires a volume not easily accommodated by a single injection, therefore, two or more injections can be used to achieve the desired dose. In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical agent is administered by infusion over an extended period of time or continuously. Doses can be stated as the amount of pharmaceutical agent per hour, day, week, or month.

“Effective amount” or “therapeutically effective amount” means the amount of active pharmaceutical agent sufficient to effectuate a desired physiological outcome in an individual in need of the agent. The effective amount can vary among individuals depending on the health and physical condition of the individual to be treated, the taxonomic group of the individuals to be treated, the formulation of the composition, assessment of the individual's medical condition, and other relevant factors.

“Fibroblast growth factor 4” or “FGFR4” means any nucleic acid or protein of FGFR4.

“FGFR4 expression” means the level of mRNA transcribed from the gene encoding FGFR4 or the level of protein translated from the mRNA. FGFR4 expression can be determined by art known methods such as a Northern or Western blot.

“FGFR4 nucleic acid” means any nucleic acid encoding FGFR4. For example, in certain embodiments, a FGFR4 nucleic acid includes a DNA sequence encoding FGFR4, a RNA sequence transcribed from DNA encoding FGFR4 (including genomic DNA comprising introns and exons), and a mRNA sequence encoding FGFR4. “FGFR4 mRNA” means a mRNA encoding a FGFR4 protein.

“Fully complementary” or “100% complementary” means each nucleobase of a nucleobase sequence of a first nucleic acid has a complementary nucleobase in a second nucleobase sequence of a second nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, a first nucleic acid is an antisense compound and a target nucleic acid is a second nucleic acid.

“Gapmer” means a chimeric antisense compound in which an internal region having a plurality of nucleosides that support RNase H cleavage is positioned between external regions having one or more nucleosides, wherein the nucleosides comprising the internal region are chemically distinct from the nucleoside or nucleosides comprising the external regions. The internal region can be referred to as a “gap segment” and the external regions can be referred to as “wing segments.”

“Gap-widened” means a chimeric antisense compound having a gap segment of 12 or more contiguous 2′-deoxyribonucleosides positioned between and immediately adjacent to 5′ and 3′ wing segments having from one to six nucleosides.

“Glucose” is a monosaccharide used by cells as a source of energy and inflammatory intermediate. “Plasma glucose” refers to glucose present in the plasma.

“Hybridization” means the annealing of complementary nucleic acid molecules. In certain embodiments, complementary nucleic acid molecules include an antisense compound and a target nucleic acid.

“Hyperlipidemia” or “hyperlipemia” is a condition characterized by elevated serum lipids or circulating (plasma) lipids. This condition manifests an abnormally high concentration of fats. The lipid fractions in the circulating blood are cholesterol, low density lipoproteins, very low density lipoproteins and triglycerides.

“Hypertriglyceridemia” means a condition characterized by elevated triglyceride levels.

“Identifying” or “selecting an animal with metabolic” means identifying or selecting a subject having been diagnosed with a metabolic disease, or a metabolic disorder; or, identifying or selecting a subject having any symptom of a metabolic disease, including, but not limited to, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension increased insulin resistance, decreased insulin sensitivity, above normal body weight, and/or above normal body fat or any combination thereof. Such identification may be accomplished by any method, including but not limited to, standard clinical tests or assessments, such as measuring serum or circulating (plasma) blood-glucose, measuring serum or circulating (plasma) triglycerides, measuring blood-pressure, measuring body fat, measuring body weight, and the like.

“Immediately adjacent” means there are no intervening elements between the immediately adjacent elements.

“Individual” or “subject” or “animal” means a human or non-human animal selected for treatment or therapy.

“Inhibiting the expression or activity” refers to a reduction or blockade of the expression or activity of a RNA or protein and does not necessarily indicate a total elimination of expression or activity.

“Insulin resistance” is defined as the condition in which normal amounts of insulin are inadequate to produce a normal insulin response from fat, muscle and liver cells. Insulin resistance in fat cells results in hydrolysis of stored triglycerides, which elevates free fatty acids in the blood plasma. Insulin resistance in muscle reduces glucose uptake whereas insulin resistance in liver reduces glucose storage, with both effects serving to elevate blood glucose. High plasma levels of insulin and glucose due to insulin resistance often leads to metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.

“Insulin sensitivity” is a measure of how effectively an individual processes glucose. An individual having high insulin sensitivity effectively processes glucose whereas an individual with low insulin sensitivity does not effectively process glucose.

“Internucleoside linkage” refers to the chemical bond between nucleosides.

“Intravenous administration” means administration into a vein.

“Linked nucleosides” means adjacent nucleosides which are bonded together.

“Lipid-lowering therapy” or “lipid lowering agent” means a therapeutic regimen provided to a subject to reduce one or more lipids in a subject. In certain embodiments, a lipid-lowering therapy is provided to reduce one or more of ApoB, total cholesterol, LDL-C, VLDL-C, IDL-C, non-HDL-C, triglycerides, small dense LDL particles, and Lp(a) in a subject. Examples of lipid-lowering therapy include statins, fibrates, and MTP inhibitors.

“Major risk factors” refers to factors that contribute to a high risk for a particular disease or condition. In certain embodiments, major risk factors for coronary heart disease include, without limitation, cigarette smoking, hypertension, low HDL-C, family history of coronary heart disease, age, and other factors disclosed herein.

“Metabolic disease” or “metabolic disorder” refers to a condition characterized by an alteration or disturbance in metabolic function. “Metabolic” and “metabolism” are terms well known in the art and generally include the whole range of biochemical processes that occur within a living organism. Metabolic diseases or disorders include, but are not limited to, obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof.

“Metabolic syndrome” means a condition characterized by a clustering of lipid and non-lipid cardiovascular risk factors of metabolic origin. In certain embodiments, metabolic syndrome is identified by the presence of any 3 of the following factors: waist circumference of greater than 102 cm in men or greater than 88 cm in women; serum triglyceride of at least 150 mg/dL; HDL-C less than 40 mg/dL in men or less than 50 mg/dL in women; blood pressure of at least 130/85 mmHg; and fasting glucose of at least 110 mg/dL. These determinants can be readily measured in clinical practice (JAMA, 2001, 285: 2486-2497).

“Mismatch” or “non-complementary nucleobase” refers to the case when a nucleobase of a first nucleic acid is not capable of pairing with the corresponding nucleobase of a second or target nucleic acid.

“Mixed dyslipidemia” means a condition characterized by elevated cholesterol and elevated triglycerides.

“Modified internucleoside linkage” refers to a substitution or any change from a naturally occurring internucleoside bond (i.e. a phosphodiester internucleoside bond).

“Modified nucleobase” refers to any nucleobase other than adenine, cytosine, guanine, thymidine, or uracil. An “unmodified nucleobase” means the purine bases adenine (A) and guanine (G), and the pyrimidine bases thymine (T), cytosine (C), and uracil (U).

“Modified nucleoside” means a nucleoside having, independently, a modified sugar moiety or modified nucleobase.

“Modified nucleotide” means a nucleotide having, independently, a modified sugar moiety, modified internucleoside linkage, or modified nucleobase. A “modified nucleoside” means a nucleoside having, independently, a modified sugar moiety or modified nucleobase.

“Modified oligonucleotide” means an oligonucleotide comprising at least one modified nucleotide.

“Modified sugar” refers to a substitution or change from a natural sugar.

“Motif” means the pattern of chemically distinct regions in an antisense compound.

“Naturally occurring internucleoside linkage” means a 3′ to 5′ phosphodiester linkage.

“Natural sugar moiety” means a sugar found in DNA (2′-H) or RNA (2′-OH).

“Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease” or “NAFLD” means a condition characterized by fatty inflammation of the liver that is not due to excessive alcohol use (for example, alcohol consumption of over 20 g/day). In certain embodiments, NAFLD is related to insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome. NAFLD encompasses a disease spectrum ranging from simple triglyceride accumulation in hepatocytes (hepatic steatosis) to hepatic steatosis with inflammation (steatohepatitis), fibrosis, and cirrhosis.

“Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis” (NASH) occurs from progression of NAFLD beyond deposition of triglycerides. A “second hit” capable of inducing necrosis, inflammation, and fibrosis is required for development of NASH. Candidates for the second-hit can be grouped into broad categories: factors causing an increase in oxidative stress and factors promoting expression of proinflammatory cytokines

“Nucleic acid” refers to molecules composed of monomeric nucleotides. A nucleic acid includes ribonucleic acids (RNA), deoxyribonucleic acids (DNA), single-stranded nucleic acids, double-stranded nucleic acids, small interfering ribonucleic acids (siRNA), and microRNAs (miRNA). A nucleic acid can also comprise a combination of these elements in a single molecule.

“Nucleobase” means a heterocyclic moiety capable of pairing with a base of another nucleic acid.

“Nucleobase sequence” means the order of contiguous nucleobases independent of any sugar, linkage, or nucleobase modification.

“Nucleoside” means a nucleobase linked to a sugar.

“Nucleoside mimetic” includes those structures used to replace the sugar or the sugar and the base and not necessarily the linkage at one or more positions of an oligomeric compound such as for example nucleoside mimetics having morpholino, cyclohexenyl, cyclohexyl, tetrahydropyranyl, bicyclo or tricyclo sugar mimetics e.g. non furanose sugar units.

“Nucleotide” means a nucleoside having a phosphate group covalently linked to the sugar portion of the nucleoside.

“Nucleotide mimetic” includes those structures used to replace the nucleoside and the linkage at one or more positions of an oligomeric compound such as for example peptide nucleic acids or morpholinos (morpholinos linked by —N(H)—C(═O)—O— or other non-phosphodiester linkage).

“Oligomeric compound” or “oligomer” refers to a polymeric structure comprising two or more sub-structures and capable of hybridizing to a region of a nucleic acid molecule. In certain embodiments, oligomeric compounds are oligonucleosides. In certain embodiments, oligomeric compounds are oligonucleotides. In certain embodiments, oligomeric compounds are antisense compounds. In certain embodiments, oligomeric compounds are antisense oligonucleotides. In certain embodiments, oligomeric compounds are chimeric oligonucleotides.

“Oligonucleotide” means a polymer of linked nucleosides each of which can be modified or unmodified, independent one from another.

“Parenteral administration” means administration through injection or infusion. Parenteral administration includes subcutaneous administration, intravenous administration, intramuscular administration, intraarterial administration, intraperitoneal administration, or intracranial administration, e.g. intrathecal or intracerebroventricular administration. Administration can be continuous, or chronic, or short or intermittent.

“Peptide” means a molecule formed by linking at least two amino acids by amide bonds. Peptide refers to polypeptides and proteins.

“Pharmaceutical agent” means a substance that provides a therapeutic benefit when administered to an individual. For example, in certain embodiments, an antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4 is pharmaceutical agent.

“Pharmaceutical composition” means a mixture of substances suitable for administering to an individual. For example, a pharmaceutical composition can comprise one or more active agents and a sterile aqueous solution.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” means a medium or diluent that does not interfere with the structure of the oligonucleotide. Certain, of such carries enable pharmaceutical compositions to be formulated as, for example, tablets, pills, dragees, capsules, liquids, gels, syrups, slurries, suspension and lozenges for the oral ingestion by a subject. For example, a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier can be a sterile aqueous solution.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable derivative” encompasses pharmaceutically acceptable salts, conjugates, prodrugs or isomers of the compounds described herein.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable salts” means physiologically and pharmaceutically acceptable salts of antisense compounds, i.e., salts that retain the desired biological activity of the parent oligonucleotide and do not impart undesired toxicological effects thereto.

“Phosphorothioate linkage” means a linkage between nucleosides where the phosphodiester bond is modified by replacing one of the non-bridging oxygen atoms with a sulfur atom. A phosphorothioate linkage is a modified internucleoside linkage.

“Portion” means a defined number of contiguous (i.e. linked) nucleobases of a nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, a portion is a defined number of contiguous nucleobases of a target nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, a portion is a defined number of contiguous nucleobases of an antisense compound.

“Prevent” refers to delaying or forestalling the onset or development of a disease, disorder, or condition for a period of time from minutes to indefinitely. Prevent also means reducing risk of developing a disease, disorder, or condition.

“Prodrug” means a therapeutic agent that is prepared in an inactive form that is converted to an active form within the body or cells thereof by the action of endogenous enzymes or other chemicals or conditions.

“Side effects” means physiological responses attributable to a treatment other than the desired effects. In certain embodiments, side effects include injection site reactions, liver function test abnormalities, renal function abnormalities, liver toxicity, renal toxicity, central nervous system abnormalities, myopathies, and malaise. For example, increased aminotransferase levels in serum can indicate liver toxicity or liver function abnormality. For example, increased bilirubin can indicate liver toxicity or liver function abnormality.

“Single-stranded oligonucleotide” means an oligonucleotide which is not hybridized to a complementary strand.

“Specifically hybridizable” refers to an antisense compound having a sufficient degree of complementarity between an antisense oligonucleotide and a target nucleic acid to induce a desired effect, while exhibiting minimal or no effects on non-target nucleic acids under conditions in which specific binding is desired, i.e. under physiological conditions in the case of in vivo assays and therapeutic treatments.

“Statin” means an agent that inhibits the activity of HMG-CoA reductase.

“Subcutaneous administration” means administration just below the skin.

“Targeting” or “targeted” means the process of design and selection of an antisense compound that will specifically hybridize to a target nucleic acid and induce a desired effect.

“Target nucleic acid,” “target RNA,” and “target RNA transcript” all refer to a nucleic acid capable of being targeted by antisense compounds.

“Target segment” means the sequence of nucleotides of a target nucleic acid to which an antisense compound is targeted. “5′ target site” refers to the 5′-most nucleotide of a target segment. “3′ target site” refers to the 3′-most nucleotide of a target segment.

“Therapeutically effective amount” means an amount of an agent that provides a therapeutic benefit to an individual.

“Therapeutic lifestyle change” means dietary and lifestyle changes intended to lower fat/adipose tissue mass and/or cholesterol. Such change can reduce the risk of developing heart disease, and may includes recommendations for dietary intake of total daily calories, total fat, saturated fat, polyunsaturated fat, monounsaturated fat, carbohydrate, protein, cholesterol, insoluble fiber, as well as recommendations for physical activity.

“Triglyceride” or “TG” means a lipid or neutral fat consisting of glycerol combined with three fatty acid molecules.

“Type 2 diabetes,” (also known as “type 2 diabetes mellitus” or “diabetes mellitus, type 2”, and formerly called “diabetes mellitus type 2”, “non-insulin-dependent diabetes (NIDDM)”, “obesity related diabetes”, or “adult-onset diabetes”) is a metabolic disorder that is primarily characterized by insulin resistance, relative insulin deficiency, and hyperglycemia.

“Treat” refers to administering a pharmaceutical composition to an animal to effect an alteration or improvement of a disease, disorder, or condition.

“Unmodified nucleotide” means a nucleotide composed of naturally occurring nucleobases, sugar moieties, and internucleoside linkages. In certain embodiments, an unmodified nucleotide is an RNA nucleotide (i.e. β-D-ribonucleosides) or a DNA nucleotide (i.e. β-D-deoxyribonucleoside).

Certain Embodiments

Certain embodiments provide methods, compounds, and compositions for inhibiting FGFR4 expression.

Certain embodiments provide antisense compounds targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 nucleic acid is any of the sequences set forth in GENBANK Accession No. NM_—002011.3 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 1), GENBANK Accession No: NT_—023133.11 truncated from nucleosides 21323018 to 21335213 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 2); and GENBANK Accession No. AB209631.1 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 3); and GENBANK Accession No NM_—022963.2 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 4). In certain embodiments, FGFR4 has the rhesus monkey sequence as set forth in GENBANK Accession No. NW_—001121000.1 truncated from nucleosides 3094000 to 3109000 (SEQ ID NO: 5). In certain embodiments, FGFR4 has the murine sequence as set forth in GENBANK Accession No. BC033313.1 (SEQ ID NO: 6).

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-6.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein consist of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of any of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein can consist of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of any of SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

In certain embodiments, the compound or composition provided herein is or comprises ISIS NOs: 463588, 463589, 463690, 463691, 463835, 463837, or 464225.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein consist of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein consist of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compound or composition is or comprises ISIS NO: 463588.

In certain embodiments, the compound or composition is or comprises ISIS NO: 463690.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 15 to 30 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein consist of 15 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of any of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein consist of 15 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of any of SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

In certain embodiments, the compound or composition provided herein is or comprises ISIS NOs: 463588, 463589, 463690, 463691, 463835, 463837, or 464225.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein consist of 15 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein consist of 15 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compound or composition provided herein is or comprise ISIS NO: 463588.

In certain embodiments, the compound or composition provided herein is or comprise ISIS NO: 463690.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 18 to 21 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 18 to 21 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of any of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 18 to 21 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of any of SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 18 to 21 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 18 to 21 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein can consist of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein can consist of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 30 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 30 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 25 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 25 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 25 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 25 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 25 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions described herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 24 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 24 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 24 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 24 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 24 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 23 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 23 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 23 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 23 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 23 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 22 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 22 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 22 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 221 inked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 22 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 21 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 21 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 21 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 21 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 21 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 21 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides and have a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a salt of the modified oligonucleotide.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein further comprise a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequence of the modified oligonucleotide is at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% complementary to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4 as measured over the entirety of the modified oligonucleotide.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequence of the modified oligonucleotide has at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identity to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322 as measured over the entirety of the modified oligonucleotide.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequence of the modified oligonucleotide has at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identity to any one of SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138 as measured over the entirety of the modified oligonucleotide.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequence of the modified oligonucleotide has at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identity to SEQ ID NO: 16 as measured over the entirety of the modified oligonucleotide.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequence of the modified oligonucleotide has at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identity to SEQ ID NO: 45 as measured over the entirety of the modified oligonucleotide.

In certain embodiments, antisense compounds or modified oligonucleotides targets a region of a FGFR4 nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, such compounds or oligonucleotides targeted to a region of a FGFR4 nucleic acid have a contiguous nucleobase portion that is complementary to an equal length nucleobase portion of the region. For example, the portion can be at least an 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 or 20 contiguous nucleobases portion complementary to an equal length portion of a region recited herein. In certain embodiments, such compounds or oligonucleotide target the following nucleotide regions of SEQ ID NO: 1: 160-179, 191-210, 191-211, 191-212, 191-213, 192-211, 192-212, 192-213, 193-212, 193-213, 194-213, 196-215, 196-216, 197-216, 200-219, 202-221, 202-222, 203-222, 290-310, 290-309, 290-311, 290-312, 290-312, 291-310, 291-311, 291-312, 292-311, 292-312, 293-312, 309-328, 332-351, 338-357, 338-358, 339-358, 347-366, 349-368, 357-376, 368-387, 368-388, 368-389, 368-390, 368-391, 369-380, 369-389, 369-390, 369-391, 370-389, 370-390, 370-391, 371-390, 371-391, 372-391, 388-407, 388-408, 389-408, 392-411, 404-423, 431-450, 431-451, 432-451, 443-462, 443-463, 444-463, 601-620, 624-643, 734-753, 757-806, 787-807, 788-807, 790-809, 790-810, 791-810, 970-989, 1024-1043, 1024-1044, 1024-1045, 1024-1046, 1024-1047, 1024-1048, 1024-1105, 1025-1044, 1025-1045, 1025-1046, 1025-1047, 1025-1048, 1026-1045, 1026-1046, 1026-1047, 1026-1048, 1027-1046, 1027-1047, 1027-1048, 1028-1047, 1028-1048, 1029-1048, 1031-1050, 1031-1051, 1032-1051, 1084-1103, 1084-1105, 1086-1105, 1097-1116, 1097-1117, 1097-1122, 1100-1119, 1100-1120, 1100-1121, 1100-1122, 1101-1120, 1101-1121, 1101-1122, 1102-1121, 1102-1122, 1103-1122, 1105-1124, 1105-1125, 1106-1125, 1110-1029, 1110-1130, 1111-1130, 1115-1134, 1185-1204, 1255-1274, 1290-1309, 1290-1310, 1291-1310, 1301-1320, 1417-1436, 1468-1487, 1468-1488, 1469-1488, 1559-1578, 1562-1581, 1564-1583, 1619-1638, 2325-2344, 2325-2345, 2326-2345, 2438-2457, 2812-2831, 2816-2835, 2816-2836, 2816-2837, 2816-2838, 2817-2836, 2817-2837, 2817-2838, 2818-2837, 2818-2838, 2819-2838, 2822-2481, 2822-2842, 2822-2843, 2822-2844, 2823-2842, 2823-2843, 2823-2844, 2824-2843, 2824-2844, 2825-2844, 2951-2970, 2951-2971, 2951-2972, 2951-2973, 2951-2974, 2951-2975, 2951-3000, 2952-2971, 2952-2972, 2952-2973, 2952-2974, 2952-2975, 2953-2972, 2953-2973, 2953-2974, 2953-2975, 2954-2973, 2954-2974, 2954-2975, 2955-2974, 2955-2975, 2956-2975.

In certain embodiments, antisense compounds or modified oligonucleotides targets a region of a FGFR4 nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, such compounds or oligonucleotides targeted to a region of a FGFR4 nucleic acid have a contiguous nucleobase portion that is complementary to an equal length nucleobase portion of the region. For example, the portion can be at least an 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 or 20 contiguous nucleobases portion complementary to an equal length portion of a region recited herein. In certain embodiments, such compounds or oligonucleotide target the following nucleotide regions of SEQ ID NO: 2: 3165-3184, 3196-3215, 3197-3216, 3196-3217, 3196-3218, 3197-3216, 3197-3217, 3197-3218, 3198-3217, 3198-3218, 3199-3218, 3201-3220, 3201-3221, 3202-3221, 3205-3224, 3207-3226, 3207-3227, 3208-3227, 3991-4011, 3991-4010, 3991-4012, 3991-4013, 3992-4011, 3992-4012, 3992-4013, 3993-4012, 3993-4013, 3994-4013, 4010-4029, 4033-4052, 4039-4058, 4039-4059, 4040-4059, 4048-4067, 4050-4069, 4058-4077, 4069-4088, 4069-4089, 4069-4091, 4069-4091, 4069-4092, 4070-4091, 4070-4090, 4070-4091, 4070-4092, 4071-4090, 4071-4091, 4071-4092, 4072-4091, 4072-4092, 4073-4092, 4089-4108, 4089-4109, 4090-4109, 4093-4112, 4105-4124, 4132-4151, 4132-4152, 4133-4152, 4144-4163, 4144-4164, 4145-4164, 4506-4522, 4528-4547, 4638-4657, 5268-5290, 5271-5291, 5272-5291, 5274-5293, 5274-5294, 5275-5294, 5966-5985, 6020-6039, 6020-6040, 6020-6041, 6020-6042, 6020-6043, 6020-6044, 6020-6235, 6021-6040, 6021-6041, 6021-6042, 6021-6043, 6021-6044, 6022-6041, 6022-6042, 6022-6043, 6022-6044, 6023-6042, 6023-6043, 6023-6044, 6024-6043, 6024-6044, 6025-6044, 6027-6046, 6027-6047, 6028-6047, 6214-6235, 6214-6233, 6214-6235, 6216-6235, 6227-6246, 6227-6247, 6227-6252, 6230-6249, 6230-6250, 6230-6251, 6230-6252, 6231-6250, 6231-6251, 6231-6252, 6232-6251, 6232-6252, 6233-6252, 6235-6254, 6235-6255, 6236-6255, 6241-6260, 6245-6264, 6315-6334, 6784-6803, 6974-6993, 7025-7044, 7025-7045, 7026-7045, 7059-7081, 7221-7240, 7223-7242, 7278-7297, 10866-10885, 10866-10866, 10867-10886, 11108-11127, 11482-11501, 11486-11505, 11486-11506, 11486-11507, 11486-11508, 11487-11506, 11487-11507, 11487-11508, 11488-11507, 11488-11508, 11489-11508, 11492-11511, 11492-11512, 11492-11513, 11492-1151, 11493-11512, 11493-11513, 11493-11514, 11494-11513, 11494-11514, 11495-11514, 11621-11640, 11621-11641, 11621-11642, 11621-11643, 11621-11644, 11621-11645, 11621-11670, 11622-11641, 11622-11642, 11622-11643, 11622-11644, 11622-11645, 11623-11642, 11623-11643, 11623-11644, 11623-11645, 11624-11643, 11624-11644, 11624-11645, 11625-11644, 11625-11645, 11626-11645.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides wherein the linked nucleosides comprise at least an 8 contiguous nucleobase portion that is complementary to an equal length nucleobase portion within the region selected from nucleotides 191-210 or 369-388 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide has at least a 9, at least a 10, at least an 11, at least a 12, at least a 13, at least a 14, at least a 15, at least a 16, at least a 17, at least an 18, at least 19 or at least a 20 contiguous nucleobase portion of which is complementary to an equal length portion within the region selected from nucleotides 191-210 or 369-388 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide is 90%, 95%, 99%, or 100% complementary to a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4, eg. SEQ ID No: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides wherein the linked nucleosides comprise at least an 8 contiguous nucleobase portion that is complementary to an equal length nucleobase portion within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215 or 4070-4089 of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide has at least a 9, at least a 10, at least an 11, at least a 12, at least a 13, at least a 14, at least a 15, at least a 16, at least a 17, at least an 18, at least 19 or at least a 20 contiguous nucleobase portion of which is complementary to an equal length portion within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215 or 4070-4089 of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide is 90%, 95%, 99%, or 100% complementary to a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4, eg. SEQ ID No: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 60% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 191-210, 193-212, 369-388, 370-389, 788-807, 790-809 and 2954-2973 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 60% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215, 3198-3217, 4070-4089, 4071-4090, 5272-5291, 5274-5293, and 11624-11643 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 70% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 191-210, 193-212, 369-388, 370-389, 188-807, 790-809 and 2954-2973 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 70% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215, 3198-3217, 4070-4089, 4071-4090, 5272-5291, 5274-5293, and 11624-11643 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 80% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 191-210, 193-212, 369-388, 370-389, 188-807, 790-809 and 2954-2973 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 80% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215, 3198-3217, 4070-4089, 4071-4090, 5272-5291, 5274-5293, and 11624-11643 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 90% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 191-210, 193-212, 369-388, 370-389, 188-807, 790-809 and 2954-2973 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 90% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215, 3198-3217, 4070-4089, 4071-4090, 5272-5291, 5274-5293, and 11624-11643 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 95% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 191-210, 193-212, 369-388, 370-389, 188-807, 790-809 and 2954-2973 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 95% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215, 3198-3217, 4070-4089, 4071-4090, 5272-5291, 5274-5293, and 11624-11643 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 99% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 191-210, 193-212, 369-388, 370-389, 188-807, 790-809 and 2954-2973 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 99% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215, 3198-3217, 4070-4089, 4071-4090, 5272-5291, 5274-5293, and 11624-11643 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 100% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 191-210, 193-212, 369-388, 370-389, 188-807, 790-809 and 2954-2973 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 100% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215, 3198-3217, 4070-4089, 4071-4090, 5272-5291, 5274-5293, and 11624-11643 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 60% complementary within nucleotides 191-210 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 60% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 70% complementary within nucleotides 191-210 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 70% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 80% complementary within nucleotides 191-210 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 80% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 90% complementary within nucleotides 191-210 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 90% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 95% complementary within nucleotides 191-210 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 95% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 99% complementary within nucleotides 191-210 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 99% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 100% complementary within nucleotides 191-210 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 100% complementary within the region selected from nucleotides 3196-3215 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 60% complementary within nucleotides 369-388 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 60% complementary within nucleotides 4070-4089 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 70% complementary within nucleotides 369-388 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 70% complementary within nucleotides 4070-4089 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 80% complementary within nucleotides 369-388 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 80% complementary within nucleotides 4070-4089 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 90% complementary within nucleotides 369-388 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 90% complementary within nucleotides 4070-4089 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 95% complementary within nucleotides 369-388 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 95% complementary within nucleotides 4070-4089 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 99% complementary within nucleotides 369-388 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 99% complementary within nucleotides 4070-4089 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 100% complementary within nucleotides 369-388 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

Certain embodiments provide compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides 99% complementary within nucleotides 4070-4089 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, such compounds or oligonucleotides targeted to a region of a FGFR4 nucleic acid have a contiguous nucleobase portion that is complementary to an equal length nucleobase portion of the region 191-210 or 369-388 of SEQ ID NO: 1.

In certain embodiments, such compounds or oligonucleotides targeted to a region of a FGFR4 nucleic acid have a contiguous nucleobase portion that is complementary to an equal length nucleobase portion of the region 3196-3215 or 4070-4089 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

In certain embodiments, the following nucleotide regions of SEQ ID NO: 1, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 65% inhibition: 160-179, 191-210, 191-211, 191-212, 191-213, 192-211, 192-212, 192-213, 193-212, 193-213, 194-213, 196-215, 196-216, 197-216, 200-219, 202-221, 202-222, 203-222, 290-210, 290-309, 290-311, 290-312, 290-312, 291-310, 291-311, 291-312, 292-311, 292-312, 293-312, 309-328, 332-351, 338-357, 338-358, 339-358, 347-366, 349-368, 357-376, 368-387, 368-388, 368-389, 368-390, 368-391, 369-380, 369-389, 369-390, 369-391, 370-389, 370-390, 370-391, 371-390, 371-391, 372-391, 388-407, 388-408, 389-408, 392-411, 404-423, 431-450, 431-451, 432-451, 443-462, 443-463, 444-463, 601-620, 624-643, 734-753, 767-806, 787-807, 788-807, 790-809, 790-810, 791-810, 970-989, 1024-1043, 1024-1044, 1024-1045, 1024-1046, 1024-1047, 1024-1048, 1024-1105, 1025-1044, 1025-1045, 1025-1046, 1025-1047, 1025-1048, 1026-1045, 1026-1046, 1026-1047, 1026-1048, 1027-1046, 1027-1047, 1027-1048, 1028-1047, 1028-1048, 1029-1048, 1031-1050, 1031-1051, 1032-1051, 1074-1051, 1084-1103, 1084-1105, 1086-1105, 1097-1116, 1097-1117, 1097-1122, 1100-1119, 1100-1119, 1100-1120, 1100-1121, 1100-1122, 1101-1120, 1101-1121, 1101-1122, 1102-1121, 1102-1122, 1103-1122, 1105-1124, 1105-1125, 1106-1125, 1110-1029, 1110-1130, 1111-1130, 1115-1134, 1185-1204, 1255-1274, 1290-1309, 1290-1310, 1291-1310, 1301-1320, 1417-1436, 1468-1487, 1468-1488, 1469-1488, 1559-1578, 1562-1581, 1564-1583, 1619-1638, 2325-2344, 2325-2345, 2326-2345, 2438-2457, 2812-2831, 2816-2835, 2816-2836, 2816-2837, 2816-2838, 2817-2836, 2817-2837, 2817-2838, 2818-2837, 2818-2838, 2819-2838, 2822-2481, 2822-2842, 2822-2843, 2822-2844, 2822-2844, 2823-2842, 2823-2843, 2823-2844, 2824-2843, 2824-2844, 2825-2844, 2951-2970, 2951-2971, 2951-2972, 2951-2973, 2951-2974, 2951-2975, 2951-2975, 2951-3000, 2952-2971, 2952-2972, 2952-2973, 2952-2974, 2952-2975, 2953-2972, 2953-2973, 2953-2974, 2953-2975, 2954-2973, 2954-2974, 2954-2975, 2955-2974, 2955-2975, and 2956-2975.

In certain embodiments, the following nucleotide regions of SEQ ID NO: 2, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 65% inhibition: 3165-3184, 3196-3215, 3196-3216, 3196-3217, 3196-3218, 3197-3216, 3197-3217, 3197-3218, 3198-3217, 3198-3218, 3199-3218, 3201-3220, 3201-3221, 3202-3221, 3205-3224, 3207-3226, 3207-3227, 3208-3227, 3991-4011, 3991-4010, 3991-4012, 3991-4013, 3991-4014, 3992-4011, 3992-4012, 3992-4013, 3993-4012, 3993-4013, 3994-4013, 4010-4029, 4033-4052, 4039-4058, 4039-4059, 4040-4059, 4048-4067, 4050-4069, 4058-4077, 4069-4088, 4069-4089, 4069-4090, 4069-4091, 4069-4092, 4070-380, 4070-4090, 4070-4091, 4070-4092, 4071-4090, 4071-4091, 4071-4092, 4072-4091, 4072-4092, 4073-4092, 4089-4108, 4089-4109, 4090-4109, 4093-4112, 4105-4124, 4132-4151, 4132-4152, 4133-4152, 4144-4163, 4144-4164, 4145-4164, 4506-4522, 4528-4547, 4638-4657, 5268-5290, 5271-5291, 5272-5291, 5274-5293, 5274-5294, 5275-5294, 5966-5985, 6020-6039, 6020-6040, 6020-6041, 6020-6042, 6020-6043, 6020-6044, 6020-6045, 6021-6040, 6021-6041, 6021-6042, 6021-6043, 6021-6044, 6022-6041, 6022-6042, 6022-6043, 6022-6044, 6023-6042, 6023-6043, 6023-6047, 6024-6043, 6024-6044, 6025-6044, 6027-6046, 6027-6047, 6028-6047, 6214-6235, 6214-6233, 6214-6235, 6216-6235, 6227-6246, 6227-6247, 6227-6252, 6230-6249, 6230-6249, 6230-6250, 6230-6251, 6230-6252, 6231-6250, 6231-6251, 6231-6252, 6232-6251, 6232-6252, 6233-6252, 6235-6254, 6235-6255, 6236-6255, 6230-6260, 6241-6260, 6245-6264, 6315-6334, 6784-6803, 6974-6993, 7025-7044, 7025-7045, 7026-7045, 7221-7240, 7223-7242, 7278-7297, 10866-10885, 10866-10886, 10867-10886, 11008-11127, 11482-11501, 11486-11505, 11486-11506, 11486-11507, 11486-11508, 11487-11506, 11487-11507, 11487-11508, 11488-11507, 11488-11508, 11489-11508, 11492-11511, 11492-11512, 11492-11513, 11492-11514, 11493-11512, 11493-11513, 11493-11514, 11494-11513, 11494-11514, 11495-11514, 11621-11640, 11621-11641, 11621-11642, 11621-11643, 11621-11644, 11621-11645, 11621-11670, 11622-11641, 11622-11642, 11622-11643, 11622-11644, 11622-11645, 11623-11642, 11623-11643, 11623-11644, 11623-1645, 11624-11643, 11624-11644, 11624-11645, 11625-11644, 11625-11645, and 11626-11645.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NO: 1, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 65% inhibition: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 59, 61, 62, 64, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, and 116.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NO: 1, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 70% inhibition: 7, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30, 32, 33, 34, 35, 38, 39, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 54, 59, 61, 64, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 85, 86, 87, 89, 90, 91, 92, 94, 97, 98, 103, 105, 106, 111, 112, 113, and 116.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NO: 1, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 75% inhibition: 7, 14, 16, 17, 22, 24, 28, 29, 30, 32, 33, 34, 39, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 49, 50, 59, 61, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 77, 78, 79, 80, 83, 85, 89, 90, 91, 92, 105, 106, 111, and 112.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NO: 1, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 80% inhibition: 7, 14, 16, 17, 28, 29, 33, 39, 45, 47, 49, 50, 72, 80, 90, 91, and 106.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NO: 1, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 85% inhibition 7, 14, 16, 29, 45, 50, 80, 90, and 91.

In certain embodiments, the following nucleotide regions of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 65% inhibition: 908-927, 992-1011, 1138-1157, 1138-1161, 1142-1161, 1345-1364, 1386-1405, 1386-1413, 1394-1413, 1461-1480, 1461-1482, 1461-1484, 1461-1486, 1461-1490, 1463-1482, 1463-1484, 1463-1486, 1463-1490, 1465-1484, 1465-1486, 1465-1490, 1467-1486, 1467-1490, 1471-1490, 1542-1561, 1941-1960, 1941-1962, 1941-1964, 1943-1962, 1943-1964, 1945-1964, 2053-2072, 2104-2123, 2104-2125, 2104-2127, 2104-2129, 2104-2131, 2104-2133, 2104-2135, 2104-2137, 2106-2125, 2106-2127, 2106-2129, 2106-2131, 2106-2133, 2106-2135, 2106-2137, 2108-2127, 2108-2129, 2108-2131, 2108-2133, 2108-2135, 2108-2137, 2110-2129, 2110-2131, 2110-2133, 2110-2135, 2110-2137, 2112-2131, 2112-2133, 2112-2135, 2112-2137, 2114-2133, 2114-2135, 2114-2137, 2116-2135, 2116-2137, 2118-2137, 2271-2290, 2838-2857, 3122-3141, 3122-3144, 3125-3144, 3165-3184, 3325-3344, 3325-3346, 3325-3348, 3325-3350, 3325-3352, 3325-3354, 3325-3356, 3325-3358, 3325-3360, 3325-3362, 3325-3362, 3327-3346, 3327-3346, 3327-3348, 3327-3350, 3327-3352, 3327-3354, 3327-3356, 3327-3358, 3327-3360, 3327-3362, 3329-3348, 3329-3348, 3329-3350, 3329-3352, 3329-3354, 3329-3356, 3329-3358, 3329-3360, 3329-3362, 3331-3350, 3331-3352, 3331-3354, 3331-3356, 3331-3358, 3331-3360, 3331-3362, 3333-3352, 3333-3354, 3333-3356, 3333-3358, 3333-3360, 3333-3362, 3335-3354, 3335-3356, 3335-3358, 3335-3360, 3335-3362, 3337-3356, 3337-3358, 3337-3360, 3337-3362, 3339-3358, 3339-3360, 3339-3362, 3341-3360, 3341-3362, 3343-3362, 3386-3405, 3386-3413, 3386-3417, 3386-3419, 3386-3423, 3386-3427, 3386-3434, 3386-3434, 3394-3413, 3394-3417, 3394-3423, 3394-3427, 3394-3434, 3398-3417, 3398-3419, 3398-3423, 3398-3427, 3398-3434, 3400-3419, 3400-3423, 3400-3427, 3400-3434, 3404-3423, 3404-3427, 3404-3434, 3408-3427, 3408-3434, 3415-3434, 3445-3464, 3445-3466, 3445-3468, 3445-3470, 3447-3466, 3447-3468, 3447-3470, 3449-3468, 3449-3470, 3451-3470, 3499-3518, 3571-3590, 3571-3592, 3571-3594, 3571-3596, 3571-3598, 3573-3592, 3573-3594, 3573-3596, 3573-3598, 3575-3594, 3575-3596, 3575-3598, 3577-3596, 3577-3598, 3579-3598, 3772-3791, 3772-3793, 3772-3795, 3772-3797, 3772-3801, 3772-3807, 3772-3817, 3774-3793, 3774-3795, 3774-3797, 3776-3795, 3776-3797, 3778-3797, 3782-3801, 3782-3817, 3788-3807, 3788-3817, 3798-3817, 3993-4012, 4799-4818, 7684-7703, 7690-7709, 7692-7711.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 65% inhibition: 29, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195, 196, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 224, 225, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, and 235.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 70% inhibition: 29, 117, 119, 120, 122, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 145, 146, 147, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 169, 170, 171, 174, 180, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 193, 195, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 203, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 225, 226, 227, 228, 229, 231, 233, 234, and 235.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 75% inhibition: 29, 117, 120, 128, 129, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 146, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 169, 174, 180, 186, 187, 188, 198, 199, 201, 202, 207, 208, 209, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 219, 220, 221, 223, 225, 227, 228, 229, 231, 233, and 235.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 80% inhibition: 29, 117, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136, 137, 138, 140, 141, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 160, 162, 163, 164, 174, 186, 187, 188, 199, 201, 202, 207, 208, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 219, 220, 221, 223, 227, 229, 231, and 233.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 85% inhibition: 29, 117, 132, 135, 136, 140, 141, 154, 156, 163, 164, 187, 188, 199, 201, 215, 216, 217, 219, 220, 221, 223, 227, 229, 231, and 233.

In certain embodiments, the following nucleotide regions of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2 or 3, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 65% inhibition: 101-120, 101-122, 101-124, 101-125, 101-126, 101-127, 102-126, 103-122, 103-124, 103-125, 103-126, 103-127, 105-124, 105-125, 105-127, 106-125, 106-126, 106-127, 107-126, 107-127, 108-127, 1122-1141, 1165-1184, 1193-1218, 1198-1217, 1199-1218, 1323-1342, 1323-1344, 1323-1346, 1323-1347, 1323-1352, 1325-1344, 1325-1346, 1325-1347, 1327-1346, 1327-1347, 1328-1347, 1333-1352, 1333-1354, 1333-1354, 1333-1356, 1333-1358, 1333-1360, 1335-1354, 1335-1356, 1335-1358, 1335-1360, 1337-1356, 1337-1358, 1337-1360, 1339-1358, 1339-1360, 1341-1360, 1392-1411, 1392-1417, 1393-1412, 1394-1413, 1394-1415, 1394-1417, 1396-1415, 1396-1417, 1398-1417, 1413-1432, 1413-1433, 1413-1434, 1414-1433, 1414-1434, 1415-1434, 1445-1464, 1445-1466, 1445-1468, 1445-1470, 1445-1471, 1447-1466, 1447-1468, 1447-1470, 1447-1471, 1449-1468, 1449-1470, 1449-1471, 1451-1470, 1451-1471, 1452-1471, 1462-1481, 1462-1481, 1462-1482, 1462-1483, 1462-1484, 1462-1485, 1462-1487, 1463-1482, 1463-1482, 1463-1483, 1463-1484, 1463-1485, 1463-1487, 1464-1483, 1464-1484, 1464-1485, 1464-1487, 1465-1484, 1465-1485, 1465-1487, 1466-1485, 1466-1487, 1468-1487, 1501-1521, 1501-1522, 1503-1522, 1569-1588, 1569-1589, 1569-1590, 1569-1591, 1569-1592, 1569-1593, 1569-1594, 1569-1596, 1569-1598, 1570-1589, 1570-1590, 1570-1591, 1570-1592, 1570-1593, 1570-1594, 1570-1596, 1570-1598, 1571-1590, 1571-1591, 1571-1591, 1571-1592, 1571-1592, 1571-1593, 1571-1593, 1571-1594, 1571-1594, 1571-1596, 1571-1596, 1571-1598, 1571-1598, 1572-1591, 1572-1592, 1572-1593, 1572-1594, 1572-1596, 1572-1598, 1573-1592, 1573-1593, 1573-1594, 1573-1596, 1573-1598, 1574-1593, 1574-1594, 1574-1596, 1574-1598, 1575-1594, 1575-1596, 1575-1598, 1577-1596, 1577-1598, 1579-1598, 1778-1797, 1778-1799, 1778-1805, 1778-1809, 1778-1811, 1778-1821, 1780-1799, 1786-1805, 1790-1809, 1790-1811, 1790-1821, 1792-1811, 1792-1821, 1802-1821, 1944-1963, 1996-2015, 2053-2072, 2074-2093, 2418-2437, 4988-5007, 5120-5139, 5121-5140, 5121-5146, 5122-5141, 5122-5142, 5122-5143, 5122-5144, 5122-5146, 5123-5142, 5123-5143, 5123-5144, 5123-5146, 5124-5143, 5124-5144, 5124-5144, 5124-5146, 5125-5146, 5127-5146, 5150-5169, 5150-5170, 5150-5171, 5151-5170, 5151-5171, 5152-5171, 7801-7820, 7801-7822, 7803-7822.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2 or 3, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 65% inhibition: 29, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272, 273, 274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 280, 281, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286, 287, 288, 289, 290, 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296, 297, 298, 299, 300, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, 320, 321, and 322.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2 or 3, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 70% inhibition: 29, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 247, 249, 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272, 274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 280, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286, 287, 288, 289, 290, 291, 294, 295, 296, 297, 298, 299, 300, 301, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 317, 319, 320, and 322.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2 or 3, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 75% inhibition: 29, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 247, 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 264, 266, 269, 271, 272, 274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 283, 284, 286, 287, 288, 291, 298, 299, 300, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 312, 313, 315, 317, 319, and 320.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2 or 3, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 80% inhibition: 29, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 247, 250, 253, 254, 255, 256, 259, 260, 261, 262, 264, 266, 271, 272, 274, 276, 278, 283, 284, 286, 287, 299, 300, 305, 306, 307, 308, 310, 312, 313, 317, and 320.

In certain embodiments, the nucleobase sequences recited in the following SEQ ID NOs of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2 or 3, when targeted by antisense compounds or oligonucleotides, displays at least 85% inhibition: 29, 241, 242, 243, 244, 247, 254, 256, 259, 260, 264, 272, 278, 299, 300, 305, 306, 307, 308, 310, 317, and 320.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NO: 1, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4, and demonstrate at least 65% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 299005, 299010, 299018, 299022, 299024, 299025, 299028, 299029, 299030, 463588, 463589, 463590, 463592, 463593, 463594, 463596, 463598, 463599, 463601, 463625, 463627, 463628, 463629, 463630, 463636, 463645, 463648, 463654, 463655, 463656, 463657, 463670, 463672, 463673, 463677, 463678, 463679, 463689, 463690, 463691, 463692, 463693, 463708, 463709, 463712, 463717, 463718, 463724, 463733, 463734, 463735, 463751, 463763, 463770, 463774, 463791, 463805, 463832, 463834, 463835, 463836, 463837, 463838, 463860, 463861, 463871, 463874, 463875, 463876, 463877, 463878, 463880, 463882, 463883, 463884, 463893, 463894, 463906, 463907, 463908, 463909, 463910, 463912, 463913, 463918, 463919, 463922, 463937, 463938, 463947, 463967, 463994, 464002, 464004, 464013, 464014, 464015, 464030, 464033, 464037, 464038, 464041, 464043, 464046, 464048, and 464049.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NO: 1, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 70% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 299005, 299029, 299030, 463588, 463589, 463590, 463592, 463593, 463596, 463598, 463599, 463627, 463628, 463629, 463630, 463645, 463648, 463654, 463655, 463670, 463672, 463679, 463689, 463690, 463691, 463692, 463693, 463708, 463709, 463712, 463724, 463751, 463763, 463774, 463834, 463835, 463837, 463838, 463861, 463874, 463875, 463876, 463877, 463878, 463880, 463882, 463884, 463893, 463894, 463907, 463908, 463909, 463910, 463913, 463922, 463937, 464002, 464013, 464014, 464038, 464041, 464043, and 464049.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NO: 1, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 75% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 299005, 299029, 463588, 463589, 463596, 463599, 463628, 463629, 463630, 463645, 463648, 463654, 463672, 463679, 463689, 463690, 463691, 463692, 463708, 463709, 463751, 463763, 463834, 463835, 463837, 463838, 463861, 463874, 463875, 463876, 463877, 463882, 463884, 463907, 463908, 463909, 463910, 464013, 464014, 464038, and 464041.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NO: 1, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 80% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 299005, 299029, 463588, 463589, 463628, 463629, 463648, 463672, 463690, 463692, 463708, 463709, 463837, 463877, 463908, 463909, and 464014.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NO: 1, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 85% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 299005, 299029, 463588, 463629, 463690, 463709, 463877, 463908, and 463909.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4, and demonstrate at least 65% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 463629, 299004, 464138, 464139, 464167, 464168, 464170, 464173, 299055, 464181, 464203, 464207, 464208, 464209, 464210, 464213, 464214, 464215, 464216, 464222, 464223, 464224, 464225, 464226, 464227, 464228, 464238, 464239, 464254, 464258, 464266, 464268, 464269, 464270, 464278, 464280, 464284, 464285, 464286, 464287, 464288, 464290, 464291, 464292, 464298, 464299, 464300, 464308, 464309, 464310, 464311, 464333, 464342, 464425, 464428, 464429, 464430, 464433, 464449, 464453, 464568, 464569, 464575, 464576, 464579, 464581, 464582, 464584, 464585, 464586, 464587, 464588, 464589, 464590, 464591, 464593, 464617, 464622, 464623, 464657, 464658, 464677, 464682, 464683, 464684, 464685, 464686, 464687, 464688, 464689, 464692, 464696, 464698, 464699, 464701, 464703, 464705, 464706, 464707, 464708, 464709, 464710, 464711, 464716, 464717, 464718, 464719, 464720, 464726, 464727, 464728, 464729, 464730, 464732, 464734, 464735, 464736, 464740, 464800, and 464801.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 70% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 463629, 299004, 464138, 464139, 464168, 464203, 464207, 464208, 464209, 464210, 464213, 464214, 464215, 464216, 464222, 464223, 464224, 464225, 464226, 464227, 464228, 464238, 464258, 464266, 464268, 464278, 464280, 464284, 464285, 464286, 464287, 464288, 464290, 464291, 464298, 464299, 464300, 464308, 464309, 464310, 464311, 464333, 464425, 464428, 464429, 464449, 464579, 464584, 464585, 464586, 464587, 464588, 464589, 464590, 464591, 464622, 464657, 464682, 464683, 464684, 464685, 464686, 464687, 464692, 464696, 464698, 464699, 464701, 464703, 464706, 464707, 464708, 464709, 464710, 464711, 464716, 464717, 464718, 464719, 464720, 464727, 464728, 464729, 464730, 464732, 464735, 464740, 464800, and 464801.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 75% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 463629, 299004, 464139, 464208, 464209, 464213, 464214, 464215, 464222, 464223, 464224, 464225, 464226, 464227, 464228, 464266, 464284, 464285, 464286, 464287, 464288, 464298, 464299, 464300, 464308, 464309, 464310, 464311, 464333, 464425, 464449, 464579, 464587, 464588, 464589, 464682, 464683, 464685, 464686, 464696, 464698, 464699, 464706, 464707, 464708, 464709, 464710, 464716, 464717, 464718, 464720, 464727, 464729, 464730, 464732, 464735, 464740, and 464801.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 80% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 463629, 299004, 464213, 464214, 464215, 464222, 464223, 464224, 464225, 464227, 464228, 464284, 464285, 464286, 464287, 464288, 464298, 464300, 464308, 464309, 464449, 464587, 464588, 464589, 464683, 464685, 464686, 464696, 464698, 464706, 464707, 464708, 464709, 464710, 464716, 464717, 464718, 464720, 464729, 464732, 464735, and 464740.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 85% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 463629, 299004, 464214, 464222, 464223, 464227, 464228, 464286, 464288, 464308, 464309, 464588, 464589, 464683, 464685, 464708, 464709, 464710, 464716, 464717, 464718, 464720, 464729, 464732, 464735, and 464740.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NOs:1 or 2 or 3, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4, and demonstrate at least 65% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 463629, 479530, 479532, 479533, 479534, 479535, 479536, 479537, 479538, 479539, 479540, 479541, 479542, 479543, 479544, 479545, 479546, 479547, 479548, 479549, 479550, 479551, 479552, 479553, 479554, 479555, 479556, 479557, 479558, 479560, 479561, 479562, 479564, 479565, 479566, 479567, 479568, 479569, 479570, 479572, 479573, 479574, 479576, 479577, 479582, 479583, 479584, 479585, 479594, 479596, 479597, 479608, 479613, 479614, 479622, 479625, 479626, 479641, 479682, 479689, 479690, 479691, 479692, 479693, 479694, 479696, 479697, 479698, 479699, 479703, 479704, 479705, 479706, 479716, 479721, 479722, 479725, 479731, 479732, 479736, 479737, 479738, 479739, 479740, and 479741.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2 or 3, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 70% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 463629, 479530, 479532, 479533, 479534, 479535, 479536, 479537, 479539, 479541, 479542, 479543, 479544, 479545, 479546, 479547, 479548, 479549, 479550, 479551, 479552, 479553, 479554, 479555, 479556, 479557, 479558, 479561, 479562, 479564, 479565, 479566, 479568, 479569, 479570, 479572, 479573, 479574, 479576, 479582, 479583, 479584, 479585, 479594, 479596, 479597, 479608, 479613, 479614, 479626, 479641, 479682, 479689, 479690, 479691, 479692, 479693, 479697, 479698, 479699, 479703, 479704, 479705, 479706, 479716, 479721, 479722, 479725, 479731, 479736, 479738, 479739, and 479741.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2 or 3, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 75% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 463629, 479530, 479532, 479533, 479534, 479535, 479536, 479537, 479539, 479542, 479543, 479544, 479545, 479546, 479547, 479548, 479549, 479550, 479551, 479552, 479553, 479554, 479556, 479558, 479562, 479565, 479566, 479568, 479569, 479570, 479572, 479573, 479574, 479583, 479584, 479594, 479596, 479597, 479614, 479690, 479691, 479692, 479698, 479699, 479703, 479704, 479705, 479706, 479721, 479722, 479731, 479736, 479738, and 479739.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2 or 3, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 80% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 463629, 479533, 479534, 479535, 479536, 479537, 479539, 479542, 479545, 479546, 479547, 479548, 479551, 479552, 479553, 479554, 479556, 479558, 479565, 479566, 479568, 479570, 479573, 479583, 479584, 479594, 479596, 479691, 479692, 479698, 479699, 479703, 479704, 479706, 479721, 479722, 479736, and 479739.

In certain embodiments, the following antisense compounds target a region of SEQ ID NOs: 1 or 2 or 3, a nucleic acid encoding human FGFR4 and demonstrate at least 85% inhibition of a FGFR4 mRNA: ISIS NOs: 463629, 479533, 479534, 479535, 479536, 479539, 479546, 479548, 479551, 479552, 479556, 479566, 479573, 479691, 479692, 479698, 479699, 479703, 479704, 479706, 479736, and 479739.

In certain embodiments, the compounds provided herein have a greater therapeutic potential than ISIS NO: 299005. In certain embodiments, the compounds provided herein have better in vivo inhibition over ISIS NO: 299005. In certain embodiments, the compounds provided herein have a better tolerability profile than ISIS NO: 299005.

In certain embodiments, the compound provided herein consists of a single-stranded modified oligonucleotide.

In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide consists of 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34 or 35 linked nucleosides. In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide consists of 20 linked nucleosides. In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide consists of 19 linked nucleosides. In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide consists of 18 linked nucleosides. In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide consists of 17 linked nucleosides. In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide consists of 16 linked nucleosides.

In certain embodiments, at least one internucleoside linkage of the modified oligonucleotide is a modified internucleoside linkage. In certain embodiments, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate internucleoside linkage.

In certain embodiments, at least one nucleoside of said modified oligonucleotide comprises a modified nucleobase. In certain embodiments, the modified nucleobase is a 5-methylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment and each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a modified sugar.

In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide consists of 20 linked nucleosides, the gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides, the 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides, the 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine is a 5-methylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, the modified oligonucleotide consists of 17 linked nucleosides, the gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides, the 5′ wing segment consisting of three linked nucleosides, the 3′ wing segment consisting of four linked nucleosides, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine is a 5-methylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8 contiguous nucleobases complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine residue is a 5-methylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 8 contiguous nucleobases complementary to an equal length portion of any of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine residue is a 5-methylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 19 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322 wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine residue is a 5-methylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 19 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine residue is a 5-methylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 19 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine residue is a 5-methylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 19 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine residue is a 5-methylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 7-322, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine residue is a 5-methylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine residue is a 5-methylcytosine. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of any of ISIS NOs: 463588, 463589, 463690, 463691, 463835, 463837, or 464225.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 16, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine residue is a 5-methylcytosine. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NO: 463588.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of SEQ ID NO: 45, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises: a) a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides; b) a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and c) a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides. The gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified sugar, each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage and each cytosine residue is a 5-methylcytosine. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NO: 463690.

Certain embodiments provide methods, compounds, and compositions for inhibiting FGFR4 expression.

Certain embodiments provide a method of reducing FGFR4 expression in an animal comprising administering to the animal a compound as described herein. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 15 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 18 to 21 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 to 35 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 to 25 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 to 24 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 to 23 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 to 22 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 to 21 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide a method of preventing, ameliorating or treating a metabolic disease in an animal comprising administering to the animal a compound as described herein. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. Examples of metabolic diseases or disorders include, but are not limited to obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof.

Certain embodiments provide a compound as described herein for use in preventing, ameliorating or treating a metabolic disease in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. Examples of metabolic diseases or disorders include, but are not limited to obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof.

Certain embodiments provide use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for preventing, ameliorating or treating a metabolic disease in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. Examples of metabolic diseases or disorders include, but are not limited to obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof.

Certain embodiments provide a method of preventing, ameliorating or treating obesity in an animal comprising administering to the animal a compound as described herein. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NOs: 463588, 463589, 463690, 463691, 463835, 463837, or 464225. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NO: 463588. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NO: 463690.

Certain embodiments provide a compound as described herein for use in preventing, ameliorating or treating obesity in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NOs: 463588, 463589, 463690, 463691, 463835, 463837, or 464225. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NO: 463588. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NO: 463690.

Certain embodiments provide use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for preventing, ameliorating or treating obesity in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NOs: 463588, 463589, 463690, 463691, 463835, 463837, or 464225. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NO: 463588. In certain embodiments, the compound or composition comprises the compound of ISIS NO: 463690.

Certain embodiments provide a method of reducing body weight in an animal comprising administering to the animal a compound as described herein. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, the body weight is reduced by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide a compound as described herein for use in reducing body weight in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, the body weight is reduced by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for reducing body weight in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, reduction of body weight in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, the body weight is reduced by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide a method of reducing adipose tissue in an animal comprising administering to the animal a compound as described herein. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, adiposity is reduced by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide a compound as described herein for use in reducing adipose tissue in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, adiposity is reduced by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for reducing adipose tissue in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, reduction in adiposity in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, adiposity is reduced by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide a method of increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal comprising administering to the animal a compound as described herein. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, the fatty acid oxidation is increased by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide a compound as described herein for use in increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, the fatty acid oxidation is increased by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, increasing fatty acid oxidation prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, the fatty acid oxidation is increased by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide a method of reducing glucose levels in an animal comprising administering to the animal a compound as described herein. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, the glucose level is reduced by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide a compound as described herein for use in reducing glucose levels in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, the glucose level is reduced by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

Certain embodiments provide use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for reducing glucose levels in an animal. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 12 to 30 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, the compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide 20 linked nucleosides in length targeted to FGFR4. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetes. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats obesity. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats metabolic syndrome. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats hyperglycemia. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats NAFLD. In certain embodiments, reduction of glucose levels in an animal prevents, ameliorates or treats diabetic dyslipidemia. In certain embodiments, the glucose level is reduced by at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100%.

In certain embodiments, FGFR4 has the sequence as set forth in any of the GENBANK Accession Numbers: GENBANK Accession No. NM_—002011.3 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 1), GENBANK Accession No: NT_—023133.11 truncated from nucleosides 21323018 to 21335213 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 2); GENBANK Accession No. AB209631.1 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 3); and GENBANK Accession No NM_—022963.2 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 4).). In certain embodiments, FGFR4 has the human sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NOs: 1-4. In certain embodiments, FGFR4 has the rhesus monkey sequence as set forth in GENBANK Accession No. NW_—001121000.1 truncated from nucleosides 3094000 to 3109000 (SEQ ID NO: 5). In certain embodiments, FGFR4 has the murine sequence as set forth in GENBANK Accession No. BC033313.1 (SEQ ID NO: 6).

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138 or a salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 25 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138 or a salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138 or a salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 16 or a salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 25 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 16 or a salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 16 or a salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent.

In certain embodiments, the compounds or compositions provided herein comprise a salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 45 or a salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 25 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 45 or a salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 45 or a salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent.

Certain embodiments provide a method for treating an animal with a FGFR4 related disease or condition comprising: a) identifying said animal with the FGFR4 related disease or condition, and b) administering to said animal a therapeutically effective amount of a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence at least 90% complementary to any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4 as measured over the entirety of said modified oligonucleotide. In certain embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of the compound administered to the animal treats or reduces the FGFR4 related disease or condition, or a symptom thereof, in the animal. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is obesity. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is diabetes.

Certain embodiments provide a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence at least 90% complementary to any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4 as measured over the entirety of said modified oligonucleotide for treating a FGFR4 related disease or condition. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is obesity. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is diabetes.

Certain embodiments provide use of a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence at least 90% complementary to any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4 as measured over the entirety of said modified oligonucleotide in the preparation of a medicament for treating a FGFR4 related disease or condition. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is obesity. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is diabetes.

Certain embodiments provide a method for treating an animal with a FGFR4 related disease or condition comprising: a) identifying said animal with the FGFR4 related disease or condition, and b) administering to said animal a therapeutically effective amount of a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence at least 100% complementary to any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4 as measured over the entirety of said modified oligonucleotide. In certain embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount of the compound administered to the animal treats or reduces the FGFR4 related disease or condition, or a symptom thereof, in the animal. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is obesity. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is diabetes.

Certain embodiments provide a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence at least 100% complementary to any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4 as measured over the entirety of said modified oligonucleotide for treating a FGFR4 related disease or condition. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is obesity. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is diabetes.

Certain embodiments provide use of a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence at least 100% complementary to any of SEQ ID NOs: 1-4 as measured over the entirety of said modified oligonucleotide in the preparation of a medicament for treating a FGFR4 related disease or condition. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is obesity. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 related disease or condition is diabetes.

Certain embodiments provide methods of treating, preventing, or ameliorating a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments the metabolic disease is obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof.

Certain embodiments provide compounds described herein for treating, preventing, or ameliorating a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments the metabolic disease is obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof.

Certain embodiments provide use of compounds described herein in the preparation of a medicament for treating, preventing, or ameliorating a metabolic disease. In certain embodiments the metabolic disease is obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof.

Certain embodiments provide methods comprising administering to an animal a compound as described herein to an animal. In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering to an animal a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

Certain embodiments provide a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138 for treating a metabolic disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.

Certain embodiments provide use of a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NOs: 16, 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138 in the preparation of a medicament for treating metabolic disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.

Certain embodiments provide methods comprising administering to an animal a compound as described herein to an animal. In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering to an animal a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence selected from among the nucleobase sequences recited in SEQ ID NO: 16.

Certain embodiments provide a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 16 for treating metabolic disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.

Certain embodiments provide use of a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 16 in the preparation of a medicament for treating metabolic disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.

Certain embodiments provide methods comprising administering to an animal a compound as described herein to an animal. In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering to an animal a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence selected from among the nucleobase sequences recited in SEQ ID NO: 45.

Certain embodiments provide a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 45 for treating metabolic disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.

Certain embodiments provide use of a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 45 in the preparation of a medicament for treating metabolic disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.

Certain embodiments provide methods comprising administering to an animal a compound as described herein to an animal. In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering to an animal a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence selected from among the nucleobase sequences recited in ISIS NO: 463588.

Certain embodiments provide a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence of ISIS NO: 463588 for treating metabolic disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.

Certain embodiments provide use of a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence of ISIS NO: 463588 in the preparation of a medicament for treating metabolic disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.

Certain embodiments provide methods comprising administering to an animal a compound as described herein to an animal. In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering to an animal a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence selected from among the nucleobase sequences recited in ISIS NO: 463690.

Certain embodiments provide a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence of ISIS NO: 463690 for treating metabolic disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.

Certain embodiments provide use of a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides and having a nucleobase sequence comprising at least 20 contiguous nucleobases of a nucleobase sequence of ISIS NO: 463690 in the preparation of a medicament for treating metabolic disease, diabetes, and/or obesity.

In certain embodiments, the animal is a human.

In certain embodiments, the administering prevents, treats, ameliorates, or slows progression of a metabolic disease as described herein.

In certain embodiments, the administering prevents, treats, ameliorates, or slows progression of obesity as described herein.

In certain embodiments, the administering prevents, treats, ameliorates, or slows progression of diabetes as described herein.

In certain embodiments, the compound is co-administered with a second agent.

In certain embodiments, the compound and the second agent are administered concomitantly.

In certain embodiments, the administering is parenteral administration.

Certain embodiments further provide a method to reduce FGFR4 mRNA or protein expression in an animal comprising administering to the animal a compound or composition as described herein to reduce FGFR4 mRNA or protein expression in the animal. In certain embodiments, the animal is a human. In certain embodiments, reducing FGFR4 mRNA or protein expression prevents, treats, ameliorates, or slows progression of metabolic disease. In certain embodiments, the metabolic disease or condition is diabetes. In certain embodiments, the metabolic disease or condition is obesity.

Certain embodiments provide a method for treating a human with a metabolic disease comprising identifying the human with the disease and administering to the human a therapeutically effective amount of a compound or composition as described herein. In certain embodiments, the treatment reduces a symptom selected from the group consisting of metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension, increased glucose levels, increased insulin resistance, decreased insulin sensitivity, above normal body weight, and/or above normal body fat or any combination thereof.

Certain embodiments provide a method for treating a human with obesity comprising identifying the human with the disease and administering to the human a therapeutically effective amount of a compound or composition as described herein. In certain embodiments, the treatment reduces a symptom selected from the group consisting of metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension, increased glucose levels, increased insulin resistance, decreased insulin sensitivity, above normal body weight, and/or above normal body fat or any combination thereof

Certain embodiments provide a method for treating a human with diabetes comprising identifying the human with the disease and administering to the human a therapeutically effective amount of a compound or composition as described herein. In certain embodiments, the treatment reduces a symptom selected from the group consisting of metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension, increased glucose levels, increased insulin resistance, decreased insulin sensitivity, above normal body weight, and/or above normal body fat or any combination thereof

Further provided is a method for reducing or preventing metabolic disease comprising administering to a human a therapeutically effective amount compound or composition as described herein, thereby reducing or preventing metabolic disease.

Further provided is a method for reducing or preventing obesity comprising administering to a human a therapeutically effective amount compound or composition as described herein, thereby reducing or preventing diabetes.

Further provided is a method for reducing or preventing diabetes comprising administering to a human a therapeutically effective amount compound or composition as described herein, thereby reducing or preventing diabetes.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of metabolic disease, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of metabolic disease in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of obesity, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of metabolic disease in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of diabetes, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of metabolic disease in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of metabolic syndrome, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of metabolic syndrome in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of metabolic disease, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of metabolic disease in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of obesity, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of obesity in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of diabetes, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of diabetes in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of metabolic syndrome, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of metabolic syndrome in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of metabolic disease, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of metabolic disease in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of obesity, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of obesity in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of diabetes, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of diabetes in the human.

Further provided is a method for ameliorating a symptom of metabolic syndrome, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby ameliorating a symptom of metabolic syndrome in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with metabolic disease, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of metabolic disease in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with obesity, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of obesity in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with diabetes, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of diabetes in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with metabolic syndrome, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 to 35 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of metabolic syndrome in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with metabolic disease, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of metabolic disease in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with obesity, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of obesity in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with diabetes, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of diabetes in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with metabolic syndrome, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of metabolic syndrome in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with metabolic disease, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of metabolic disease in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with obesity, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of obesity in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with diabetes, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of diabetes in the human.

Further provided is a method for reducing the rate of progression of a symptom associated with metabolic syndrome, comprising administering to a human in need thereof a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 20 linked nucleosides, wherein said modified oligonucleotide specifically hybridizes to SEQ ID NO: 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, thereby reducing the rate of progression a symptom of metabolic syndrome in the human.

Also provided are methods and compounds for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment, prevention, or amelioration of metabolic disease.

Also provided are methods and compounds for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment, prevention, or amelioration of obesity.

Also provided are methods and compounds for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment, prevention, or amelioration of diabetes.

Also provided are methods and compounds for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment, prevention, or amelioration of metabolic syndrome.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, ameliorating, or preventing metabolic disease.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, ameliorating, or preventing obesity.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, ameliorating, or preventing diabetes.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, ameliorating, or preventing metabolic syndrome.

Certain embodiments provide a compound as described herein for use in treating, preventing, or ameliorating metabolic disease as described herein by combination therapy with an additional agent or therapy as described herein. Agents or therapies can be co-administered or administered concomitantly.

Certain embodiments provide a compound as described herein for use in treating, preventing, or ameliorating diabetes as described herein by combination therapy with an additional agent or therapy as described herein. Agents or therapies can be co-administered or administered concomitantly.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, preventing, or ameliorating metabolic disease as described herein by combination therapy with an additional agent or therapy as described herein. Agents or therapies can be co-administered or administered concomitantly.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, preventing, or ameliorating obesity as described herein by combination therapy with an additional agent or therapy as described herein. Agents or therapies can be co-administered or administered concomitantly.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, preventing, or ameliorating diabetes as described herein by combination therapy with an additional agent or therapy as described herein. Agents or therapies can be co-administered or administered concomitantly.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, preventing, or ameliorating diabetes as described herein by combination therapy with an additional agent or therapy as described herein. Agents or therapies can be co-administered or administered concomitantly.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, preventing, or ameliorating metabolic disease as described herein in a patient who is subsequently administered an additional agent or therapy as described herein.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, preventing, or ameliorating obesity as described herein in a patient who is subsequently administered an additional agent or therapy as described herein.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, preventing, or ameliorating diabetes as described herein in a patient who is subsequently administered an additional agent or therapy as described herein.

Certain embodiments provide the use of a compound as described herein in the manufacture of a medicament for treating, preventing, or ameliorating metabolic syndrome as described herein in a patient who is subsequently administered an additional agent or therapy as described herein.

Certain embodiments provide a kit for treating, preventing, or ameliorating metabolic disease as described herein wherein the kit comprises:

(i) a compound as described herein; and alternatively
(ii) an additional agent or therapy as described herein.

Certain embodiments provide a kit for treating, preventing, or ameliorating obesity as described herein wherein the kit comprises:

(i) a compound as described herein; and alternatively
(ii) an additional agent or therapy as described herein.

Certain embodiments provide a kit for treating, preventing, or ameliorating diabetes as described herein wherein the kit comprises:

(i) a compound as described herein; and alternatively
(ii) an additional agent or therapy as described herein.

Certain embodiments provide a kit for treating, preventing, or ameliorating metabolic syndrome as described herein wherein the kit comprises:

(i) a compound as described herein; and alternatively
(ii) an additional agent or therapy as described herein.

A kit as described herein may further include instructions for using the kit to treat, prevent, or ameliorate metabolic disease as described herein by combination therapy as described herein. In certain embodiments, the metabolic disease is obesity. In certain embodiments, the metabolic disease is diabetes.

In certain embodiments, a biomarker of the anti-obesity effect of an FGFR4 inhibitor is an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 protein levels. In certain embodiments, a biomarker of FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotide-caused anti-obesity effect is an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 gene expression levels. In certain embodiments, a biomarker of FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotide-caused anti-obesity effect is an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 protein levels. In certain embodiments, a biomarker of FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotide-caused anti-obesity effect is an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 gene expression levels. In certain embodiments, the FGF15 and/or FGF19 nucleic acid is any of the sequences set forth in GENBANK Accession No. NM_—008003.2 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 345), GENBANK Accession No: XM_—001100825.1 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 346); and GENBANK Accession No. NM_—005117.1 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 347).

Certain embodiments provide methods of detecting the anti-obesity effect of a FGFR4 inhibitor in an animal by measuring an increase in ileum FGF15 and/or ileum FGF19 gene expression and plasma FGF15 and/or plasma FGF19 protein levels.

Certain embodiments provide methods for predicting responsiveness of an animal to an FGFR4 inhibitor by measuring an increase in ileum FGF15 and/or ileum FGF19 gene expression and plasma FGF15 and/or plasma FGF19 protein levels.

Certain embodiments provide methods of detecting the anti-obesity effect of a FGFR4 inhibitor in an animal comprising: (a) measuring FGF15 gene expression in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF15 gene expression after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF15 gene expression. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods of detecting the anti-obesity effect of a FGFR4 inhibitor in an animal comprising: (a) measuring FGF19 gene expression in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF19 gene expression after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF19 gene expression. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods of detecting the anti-obesity effect of a FGFR4 inhibitor in an animal comprising: (a) measuring FGF15 protein levels in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF15 protein levels after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF15 protein levels. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods of detecting the anti-obesity effect of a FGFR4 inhibitor in an animal comprising: (a) measuring FGF19 protein levels in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF19 protein levels after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF19 protein levels. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods for predicting responsiveness of an animal to an FGFR4 inhibitor comprising: (a) measuring FGF15 gene expression in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF15 gene expression after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF15 gene expression. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods for predicting responsiveness of an animal to an FGFR4 inhibitor comprising: (a) measuring FGF19 gene expression in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF19 gene expression after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF19 gene expression. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods for predicting responsiveness of an animal to an FGFR4 inhibitor comprising: (a) measuring FGF15 protein levels in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF15 protein levels after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF15 protein levels. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods for predicting responsiveness of an animal to an FGFR4 inhibitor comprising: (a) measuring FGF19 protein levels in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF19 protein levels after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF19 protein levels. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide a method for treating a metabolic disease, including obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof, comprising administering a first dose of a compound or composition as described herein to a subject having a baseline level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue and administering one or more additional doses of the compound or composition to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 in the blood or a tissue is not increased from the baseline level by a certain extent for a certain amount of time.

In some aspects, one or more additional doses of the compound or composition described herein is administered to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue is not increased from the baseline level for at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks.

In certain aspects, one or more additional doses of the compound or composition described herein is administered to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue is not increased from the baseline level by at least about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 100%, 101%, 102%, 103% 104%, 105%, 106%, 107%, 108%, 109%, 110%, 111%, 112%, 113%, 114%, 115%, 116%, 117%, 118%, 119%, 120%, 121%, 122%, 123%, 124%, 125%, 126%, 127%, 128%, 129%, 130%, 131%, 132%, 133%, 134%, 135%, 136%, 137%, 138%, 139%, 140%, 141%, 142%, 143%, 144%, 145%, 146%, 147%, 148%, 149%, 150%, 151%, 152%, 153%, 154%, 155%, 156%, 157%, 158%, 159%, 160%, 161%, 162%, 163%, 164%, 165%, 166%, 167%, 168%, 169%, 170%, 171%, 172%, 173%, 174%, 175%, 176%, 177%, 178%, 179%, 180%, 181%, 182%, 183%, 184%, 185%, 186%, 187%, 188%, 189%, 190%, 191%, 192%, 193%, 194%, 195%, 196%, 197%, 198%, 199%, 200%, 300%, 400%, 500%, 600%, 700%, 800%, 900%, 1,000%, or any value in between any of the aforementioned percentages.

Administration of one or more additional doses of the compound or composition described herein can continue until such increases in the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue relative to the baseline level does not occur for at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

In certain aspects, one or more additional doses of the compound or composition described herein is administered to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue is not increased from the baseline level by at least about 1 pg/mL, 5 pg/mL, 10 pg/mL, 15 pg/mL, 20 pg/mL, 25 pg/mL, 30 pg/mL, 35 pg/mL, 40 pg/mL, 45 pg/mL, 50 pg/mL, 55 pg/mL, 60 pg/mL, 65 pg/mL, 70 pg/mL, 75 pg/mL, 80 pg/mL, 85 pg/mL, 90 pg/mL, 95 pg/mL, 100 pg/mL, 105 pg/mL, 110 pg/mL, 115 pg/mL, 120 pg/mL, 125 pg/mL, 130 pg/mL, 135 pg/mL, 140 pg/mL, 145 pg/mL, 150 pg/mL, 155 pg/mL, 160 pg/mL, 165 pg/mL, 170 pg/mL, 175 pg/mL, 180 pg/mL, 185 pg/mL, 190 pg/mL, 195 pg/mL, 200 pg/mL, 205 pg/mL, 210 pg/mL, 215 pg/mL, 220 pg/mL, 225 pg/mL, 230 pg/mL, 235 pg/mL, 240 pg/mL, 245 pg/mL, 250 pg/mL, 255 pg/mL, 260 pg/mL, 265 pg/mL, 270 pg/mL, 275 pg/mL, 280 pg/mL, 290 pg/mL, 295 pg/mL, 300 pg/mL, 350 pg/mL, 400 pg/mL, 450 pg/mL, 500 pg/mL, 550 pg/mL, 600 pg/mL, 650 pg/mL, 700 pg/mL, 750 pg/mL, 800 pg/mL, 850 pg/mL, 900 pg/mL, 950 pg/mL, 1,000 pg/mL, 2,000 pg/mL, or any value in between any of the aforementioned concentrations. Administration of one or more additional doses of the compound or composition described herein can continue until such increases in the level of FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue relative to the baseline level does not occur for at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

It will be understood that one or more doses of the compound or composition described herein can be administered during the aforementioned time periods. For example, a subject may have been administered one or more doses of the compound or composition described herein during the at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks. In certain embodiments, additional doses of the compound or composition described herein are administered to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue is not increased from the baseline level by at least about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 100%, 101%, 102%, 103% 104%, 105%, 106%, 107%, 108%, 109%, 110%, 111%, 112%, 113%, 114%, 115%, 116%, 117%, 118%, 119%, 120%, 121%, 122%, 123%, 124%, 125%, 126%, 127%, 128%, 129%, 130%, 131%, 132%, 133%, 134%, 135%, 136%, 137%, 138%, 139%, 140%, 141%, 142%, 143%, 144%, 145%, 146%, 147%, 148%, 149%, 150%, 151%, 152%, 153%, 154%, 155%, 156%, 157%, 158%, 159%, 160%, 161%, 162%, 163%, 164%, 165%, 166%, 167%, 168%, 169%, 170%, 171%, 172%, 173%, 174%, 175%, 176%, 177%, 178%, 179%, 180%, 181%, 182%, 183%, 184%, 185%, 186%, 187%, 188%, 189%, 190%, 191%, 192%, 193%, 194%, 195%, 196%, 197%, 198%, 199%, 200%, 300%, 400%, 500%, 600%, 700%, 800%, 900%, 1,000%, or any value in between any of the aforementioned percentages in the aforementioned time periods. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

Various embodiments are directed to a method of treating a metabolic disease, including obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof, comprising (a) obtaining the baseline level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue of a subject, (b) administering to the subject a dose of a compound or composition described herein, (c) obtaining the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue after the administration of the compound or composition described herein; and (d) repeating steps (b) and (c) until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue does not increase by a certain extent for a certain amount of time relative to baseline.

In several aspects, steps (b) and (c) are repeated until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue does not increase relative to baseline for at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

In certain aspects, one or more additional doses of the compound or composition described herein is administered to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue is not increased from the baseline level by at least about 1 pg/mL, 5 pg/mL, 10 pg/mL, 15 pg/mL, 20 pg/mL, 25 pg/mL, 30 pg/mL, 35 pg/mL, 40 pg/mL, 45 pg/mL, 50 pg/mL, 55 pg/mL, 60 pg/mL, 65 pg/mL, 70 pg/mL, 75 pg/mL, 80 pg/mL, 85 pg/mL, 90 pg/mL, 95 pg/mL, 100 pg/mL, 105 pg/mL, 110 pg/mL, 115 pg/mL, 120 pg/mL, 125 pg/mL, 130 pg/mL, 135 pg/mL, 140 pg/mL, 145 pg/mL, 150 pg/mL, 155 pg/mL, 160 pg/mL, 165 pg/mL, 170 pg/mL, 175 pg/mL, 180 pg/mL, 185 pg/mL, 190 pg/mL, 195 pg/mL, 200 pg/mL, 205 pg/mL, 210 pg/mL, 215 pg/mL, 220 pg/mL, 225 pg/mL, 230 pg/mL, 235 pg/mL, 240 pg/mL, 245 pg/mL, 250 pg/mL, 255 pg/mL, 260 pg/mL, 265 pg/mL, 270 pg/mL, 275 pg/mL, 280 pg/mL, 290 pg/mL, 295 pg/mL, 300 pg/mL, 350 pg/mL, 400 pg/mL, 450 pg/mL, 500 pg/mL, 550 pg/mL, 600 pg/mL, 650 pg/mL, 700 pg/mL, 750 pg/mL, 800 pg/mL, 850 pg/mL, 900 pg/mL, 950 pg/mL, 1,000 pg/mL, 2,000 pg/mL, or any value in between any of the aforementioned concentrations. Administration of one or more additional doses of the compound or composition described herein can continue until such increases in the level of FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue relative to the baseline level does not occur for at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

In certain embodiments, a method of treating a metabolic disease and/or obesity comprises (a) obtaining the baseline level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue of a subject, (b) administering to the subject a dose of a compound or composition described herein, (c) obtaining the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue after the administration of the compound or composition described herein; and (d) repeating steps (b) and (c) until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue does not increase by about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 100%, 101%, 102%, 103% 104%, 105%, 106%, 107%, 108%, 109%, 110%, 111%, 112%, 113%, 114%, 115%, 116%, 117%, 118%, 119%, 120%, 121%, 122%, 123%, 124%, 125%, 126%, 127%, 128%, 129%, 130%, 131%, 132%, 133%, 134%, 135%, 136%, 137%, 138%, 139%, 140%, 141%, 142%, 143%, 144%, 145%, 146%, 147%, 148%, 149%, 150%, 151%, 152%, 153%, 154%, 155%, 156%, 157%, 158%, 159%, 160%, 161%, 162%, 163%, 164%, 165%, 166%, 167%, 168%, 169%, 170%, 171%, 172%, 173%, 174%, 175%, 176%, 177%, 178%, 179%, 180%, 181%, 182%, 183%, 184%, 185%, 186%, 187%, 188%, 189%, 190%, 191%, 192%, 193%, 194%, 195%, 196%, 197%, 198%, 199%, 200%, 300%, 400%, 500%, 600%, 700%, 800%, 900%, 1,000%, or any value in between any of the aforementioned percentages relative to baseline for at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

Certain embodiments provide a method for treating a metabolic disease, including obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof, comprising administering a first dose of a compound or composition as described herein to a subject having a baseline level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue and administering one or more additional higher doses of the compound or composition to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 in the blood or a tissue is increased from the baseline level by a certain extent for a certain amount of time. In several aspects, such method further comprises administering additional doses of the compound or composition to the subject to maintain FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue at a certain level above the baseline level. It will be understood that the one or more additional higher doses can be relative to the first dose or the most recently administered additional higher dose.

In some aspects, one or more additional higher doses of the compound or composition described herein is administered to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue is increased from the baseline level for at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks.

In several aspects, one or more additional higher doses of the compound or composition described herein is an amount at least about 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3., 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 5.0, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 6.0, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8, 6.9, 7.0, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7, 7.8, 7.9, 8.0, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, 8.9, 9.0, 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, or 10.0 fold greater than the first dose or most recently administered additional higher dose. In certain aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

In certain aspects, one or more additional higher doses of the compound or composition described herein is administered to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue is increased from the baseline level by at least about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 100%, 101%, 102%, 103% 104%, 105%, 106%, 107%, 108%, 109%, 110%, 111%, 112%, 113%, 114%, 115%, 116%, 117%, 118%, 119%, 120%, 121%, 122%, 123%, 124%, 125%, 126%, 127%, 128%, 129%, 130%, 131%, 132%, 133%, 134%, 135%, 136%, 137%, 138%, 139%, 140%, 141%, 142%, 143%, 144%, 145%, 146%, 147%, 148%, 149%, 150%, 151%, 152%, 153%, 154%, 155%, 156%, 157%, 158%, 159%, 160%, 161%, 162%, 163%, 164%, 165%, 166%, 167%, 168%, 169%, 170%, 171%, 172%, 173%, 174%, 175%, 176%, 177%, 178%, 179%, 180%, 181%, 182%, 183%, 184%, 185%, 186%, 187%, 188%, 189%, 190%, 191%, 192%, 193%, 194%, 195%, 196%, 197%, 198%, 199%, 200%, 300%, 400%, 500%, 600%, 700%, 800%, 900%, 1,000%, or any value in between any of the aforementioned percentages.

Administration of one or more additional higher doses of the compound or composition described herein can continue until such increases in the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue relative to the baseline level occurs for at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks. In certain aspects, additional doses of the compound or composition can be administered to the subject to maintain FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue at a certain level above the baseline level. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

In certain aspects, one or more additional higher doses of the compound or composition described herein is administered to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue is increased from the baseline level by at least about 1 pg/mL, 5 pg/mL, 10 pg/mL, 15 pg/mL, 20 pg/mL, 25 pg/mL, 30 pg/mL, 35 pg/mL, 40 pg/mL, 45 pg/mL, 50 pg/mL, 55 pg/mL, 60 pg/mL, 65 pg/mL, 70 pg/mL, 75 pg/mL, 80 pg/mL, 85 pg/mL, 90 pg/mL, 95 pg/mL, 100 pg/mL, 105 pg/mL, 110 pg/mL, 115 pg/mL, 120 pg/mL, 125 pg/mL, 130 pg/mL, 135 pg/mL, 140 pg/mL, 145 pg/mL, 150 pg/mL, 155 pg/mL, 160 pg/mL, 165 pg/mL, 170 pg/mL, 175 pg/mL, 180 pg/mL, 185 pg/mL, 190 pg/mL, 195 pg/mL, 200 pg/mL, 205 pg/mL, 210 pg/mL, 215 pg/mL, 220 pg/mL, 225 pg/mL, 230 pg/mL, 235 pg/mL, 240 pg/mL, 245 pg/mL, 250 pg/mL, 255 pg/mL, 260 pg/mL, 265 pg/mL, 270 pg/mL, 275 pg/mL, 280 pg/mL, 290 pg/mL, 295 pg/mL, 300 pg/mL, 350 pg/mL, 400 pg/mL, 450 pg/mL, 500 pg/mL, 550 pg/mL, 600 pg/mL, 650 pg/mL, 700 pg/mL, 750 pg/mL, 800 pg/mL, 850 pg/mL, 900 pg/mL, 950 pg/mL, 1,000 pg/mL, 2,000 pg/mL, or any value in between any of the aforementioned concentrations. Administration of one or more additional higher doses of the compound or composition described herein can continue until such increases in the level of FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue relative to the baseline level occurs for at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks. In certain aspects, additional doses of the compound or composition can be administered to the subject to maintain FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue at any of the aforementioned concentrations above the baseline level. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

It will be understood that one or more higher doses of the compound or composition described herein can be administered during the aforementioned time periods. For example, a subject may have been administered one or more doses of the compound or composition described herein during the at least about one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks, eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, twelve weeks, thirteen weeks, fourteen weeks, fifteen weeks, sixteen weeks, seventeen weeks, eighteen weeks, nineteen weeks, twenty weeks, twenty-one weeks, twenty-two weeks, twenty-three weeks, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-three, thirty-four, thirty-five, thirty-six, thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirty-nine, forty, forty-one, forty-two, forty-three, forty-four, forty-five, forty-six, forty-seven, forty-eight, forty-nine, or fifty weeks. In certain embodiments, additional higher doses of the compound or composition described herein are administered to the subject until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue is increased from the baseline level by at least about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 100%, 101%, 102%, 103% 104%, 105%, 106%, 107%, 108%, 109%, 110%, 111%, 112%, 113%, 114%, 115%, 116%, 117%, 118%, 119%, 120%, 121%, 122%, 123%, 124%, 125%, 126%, 127%, 128%, 129%, 130%, 131%, 132%, 133%, 134%, 135%, 136%, 137%, 138%, 139%, 140%, 141%, 142%, 143%, 144%, 145%, 146%, 147%, 148%, 149%, 150%, 151%, 152%, 153%, 154%, 155%, 156%, 157%, 158%, 159%, 160%, 161%, 162%, 163%, 164%, 165%, 166%, 167%, 168%, 169%, 170%, 171%, 172%, 173%, 174%, 175%, 176%, 177%, 178%, 179%, 180%, 181%, 182%, 183%, 184%, 185%, 186%, 187%, 188%, 189%, 190%, 191%, 192%, 193%, 194%, 195%, 196%, 197%, 198%, 199%, 200%, 300%, 400%, 500%, 600%, 700%, 800%, 900%, 1,000%, or any value in between any of the aforementioned percentages in the aforementioned time periods. In certain aspects, additional doses of the compound or composition can be administered to the subject to maintain FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue at any of the aforementioned increased levels above the baseline level. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

In certain embodiments, a method of treating a metabolic disease, including obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof, comprises (a) obtaining the baseline level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue of a subject, (b) administering to the subject a dose of a compound or composition described herein, (c) obtaining the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue after the administration of the compound or composition described herein; and (d) repeating steps (b) and (c) until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue is increased by at least about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 100%, 101%, 102%, 103% 104%, 105%, 106%, 107%, 108%, 109%, 110%, 111%, 112%, 113%, 114%, 115%, 116%, 117%, 118%, 119%, 120%, 121%, 122%, 123%, 124%, 125%, 126%, 127%, 128%, 129%, 130%, 131%, 132%, 133%, 134%, 135%, 136%, 137%, 138%, 139%, 140%, 141%, 142%, 143%, 144%, 145%, 146%, 147%, 148%, 149%, 150%, 151%, 152%, 153%, 154%, 155%, 156%, 157%, 158%, 159%, 160%, 161%, 162%, 163%, 164%, 165%, 166%, 167%, 168%, 169%, 170%, 171%, 172%, 173%, 174%, 175%, 176%, 177%, 178%, 179%, 180%, 181%, 182%, 183%, 184%, 185%, 186%, 187%, 188%, 189%, 190%, 191%, 192%, 193%, 194%, 195%, 196%, 197%, 198%, 199%, 200%, 300%, 400%, 500%, 600%, 700%, 800%, 900%, 1,000%, or any value in between any of the aforementioned percentages relative to the baseline level. In certain aspects, the dose administered in step (d) can be a higher dose than previously administered until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue is increased by any of the aforementioned percentages. In certain aspects, such method further comprises administering additional doses of the compound or composition to the subject to maintain FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue at any of the aforementioned increased levels above the baseline level. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

In certain embodiments, a method of treating a metabolic disease, including obesity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, prediabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, or hypertriglyceridemia or a combination thereof, comprises (a) obtaining the baseline level of FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue of a subject, (b) administering to the subject a dose of a compound or composition described herein, (c) obtaining the level of FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue after the administration of the compound or composition described herein; and (d) repeating steps (b) and (c) until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue is increased by at least about 1 pg/mL, 5 pg/mL, 10 pg/mL, 15 pg/mL, 20 pg/mL, 25 pg/mL, 30 pg/mL, 35 pg/mL, 40 pg/mL, 45 pg/mL, 50 pg/mL, 55 pg/mL, 60 pg/mL, 65 pg/mL, 70 pg/mL, 75 pg/mL, 80 pg/mL, 85 pg/mL, 90 pg/mL, 95 pg/mL, 100 pg/mL, 105 pg/mL, 110 pg/mL, 115 pg/mL, 120 pg/mL, 125 pg/mL, 130 pg/mL, 135 pg/mL, 140 pg/mL, 145 pg/mL, 150 pg/mL, 155 pg/mL, 160 pg/mL, 165 pg/mL, 170 pg/mL, 175 pg/mL, 180 pg/mL, 185 pg/mL, 190 pg/mL, 195 pg/mL, 200 pg/mL, 205 pg/mL, 210 pg/mL, 215 pg/mL, 220 pg/mL, 225 pg/mL, 230 pg/mL, 235 pg/mL, 240 pg/mL, 245 pg/mL, 250 pg/mL, 255 pg/mL, 260 pg/mL, 265 pg/mL, 270 pg/mL, 275 pg/mL, 280 pg/mL, 290 pg/mL, 295 pg/mL, 300 pg/mL, 350 pg/mL, 400 pg/mL, 450 pg/mL, 500 pg/mL, 550 pg/mL, 600 pg/mL, 650 pg/mL, 700 pg/mL, 750 pg/mL, 800 pg/mL, 850 pg/mL, 900 pg/mL, 950 pg/mL, 1,000 pg/mL, 2,000 pg/mL, or any value in between any of the aforementioned concentrations. In certain aspects, the dose administered in step (d) can be a higher dose than previously administered until the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in the blood or a tissue is increased by any of the aforementioned percentages. In certain aspects, such method further comprises administering additional doses of the compound or composition to the subject to maintain FGF15 or FGF19 protein in the blood or a tissue at any of the aforementioned increased concentrations above the baseline level. In several aspects, each dose of compound or composition described herein can be about 50-2000 mg, about 50-400 mg, about 50-200 mg, about 50-100 mg, about 100-200 mg, or any amount in between any of the aforementioned ranges.

The level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in a blood or a tissue, such as liver tissue, may be obtained by several known assays. For instance, FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA levels can be obtained by quantitative RT-PCR. FGF15 or FGF19 protein levels can be obtained, for example, by using any of a number of well recognized immunological binding assays such as, but not limited to, an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which is also known as a “sandwich assay”, an enzyme immunoassay, a radioimmunoassay (RIA), a fluoroimmunoassay (FIA), a chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) a counting immunoassay (CIA), a filter media enzyme immunoassay (MEIA), or a fluorescence-linked immunosorbent assay (FLISA). Several commercial antibodies against FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein are suitable for obtaining the level of FGF15 or FGF19 mRNA or protein in a blood or a tissue. Such commercially available antibodies can be obtained from Abcam or Santa Cruz Biotechnology, for example. FGF15 or FGF19 protein levels can be also be obtained by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectrometry, or surface plasmon resonance.

Antisense Compounds

Oligomeric compounds include, but are not limited to, oligonucleotides, oligonucleosides, oligonucleotide analogs, oligonucleotide mimetics, antisense compounds, antisense oligonucleotides, and siRNAs. An oligomeric compound may be “antisense” to a target nucleic acid, meaning that is capable of undergoing hybridization to a target nucleic acid through hydrogen bonding.

In certain embodiments, an antisense compound has a nucleobase sequence that, when written in the 5′ to 3′ direction, comprises the reverse complement of the target segment of a target nucleic acid to which it is targeted. In certain such embodiments, an antisense oligonucleotide has a nucleobase sequence that, when written in the 5′ to 3′ direction, comprises the reverse complement of the target segment of a target nucleic acid to which it is targeted.

In certain embodiments, an antisense compound targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid is 12 to 30 nucleotides in length. In other words, antisense compounds are from 12 to 30 linked nucleobases. In other embodiments, the antisense compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 8 to 80, 10 to 50, 15 to 30, 18 to 21, 20 to 80, 20 to 35, 20 to 30, 20 to 29, 20 to 28, 20 to 27, 20 to 26, 20 to 25, 20 to 24, 20 to 23, 20 to 22, 20 to 21 or 20 linked nucleobases. In certain such embodiments, the antisense compound comprises a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, or 80 linked nucleobases in length, or a range defined by any two of the above values.

In certain embodiments, the antisense compound comprises a shortened or truncated modified oligonucleotide. The shortened or truncated modified oligonucleotide can have a single nucleoside deleted from the 5′ end (5′ truncation), or alternatively from the 3′ end (3′ truncation). A shortened or truncated oligonucleotide may have two nucleosides deleted from the 5′ end, or alternatively may have two subunits deleted from the 3′ end. Alternatively, the deleted nucleosides may be dispersed throughout the modified oligonucleotide, for example, in an antisense compound having one nucleoside deleted from the 5′ end and one nucleoside deleted from the 3′ end.

When a single additional nucleoside is present in a lengthened oligonucleotide, the additional nucleoside may be located at the 5′ or 3′ end of the oligonucleotide. When two or more additional nucleosides are present, the added nucleosides may be adjacent to each other, for example, in an oligonucleotide having two nucleosides added to the 5′ end (5′ addition), or alternatively to the 3′ end (3′ addition), of the oligonucleotide. Alternatively, the added nucleoside may be dispersed throughout the antisense compound, for example, in an oligonucleotide having one nucleoside added to the 5′ end and one subunit added to the 3′ end.

It is possible to increase or decrease the length of an antisense compound, such as an antisense oligonucleotide, and/or introduce mismatch bases without eliminating activity. For example, in Woolf et al. (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 89:7305-7309, 1992), a series of antisense oligonucleotides 13-25 nucleobases in length were tested for their ability to induce cleavage of a target RNA in an oocyte injection model. Antisense oligonucleotides 25 nucleobases in length with 8 or 11 mismatch bases near the ends of the antisense oligonucleotides were able to direct specific cleavage of the target mRNA, albeit to a lesser extent than the antisense oligonucleotides that contained no mismatches. Similarly, target specific cleavage was achieved using 13 nucleobase antisense oligonucleotides, including those with 1 or 3 mismatches.

Gautschi et al (J. Natl. Cancer Inst. 93:463-471, March 2001) demonstrated the ability of an oligonucleotide having 100% complementarity to the bcl-2 mRNA and having 3 mismatches to the bcl-xL mRNA to reduce the expression of both bcl-2 and bcl-xL in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, this oligonucleotide demonstrated potent anti-tumor activity in vivo.

Maher and Dolnick (Nuc. Acid. Res. 16:3341-3358, 1988) tested a series of tandem 14 nucleobase antisense oligonucleotides, and a 28 and 42 nucleobase antisense oligonucleotides comprised of the sequence of two or three of the tandem antisense oligonucleotides, respectively, for their ability to arrest translation of human DHFR in a rabbit reticulocyte assay. Each of the three 14 nucleobase antisense oligonucleotides alone was able to inhibit translation, albeit at a more modest level than the 28 or 42 nucleobase antisense oligonucleotides.

Antisense Compound Motifs

In certain embodiments, antisense compounds targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid have chemically modified subunits arranged in patterns, or motifs, to confer to the antisense compounds properties such as enhanced inhibitory activity, increased binding affinity for a target nucleic acid, or resistance to degradation by in vivo nucleases.

Chimeric antisense compounds typically contain at least one region modified so as to confer increased resistance to nuclease degradation, increased cellular uptake, increased binding affinity for the target nucleic acid, and/or increased inhibitory activity. A second region of a chimeric antisense compound may optionally serve as a substrate for the cellular endonuclease RNase H, which cleaves the RNA strand of an RNA:DNA duplex.

Antisense compounds having a gapmer motif are considered chimeric antisense compounds. In a gapmer an internal region having a plurality of nucleotides that supports RNaseH cleavage is positioned between external regions having a plurality of nucleotides that are chemically distinct from the nucleosides of the internal region. In the case of an antisense oligonucleotide having a gapmer motif, the gap segment generally serves as the substrate for endonuclease cleavage, while the wing segments comprise modified nucleosides. In certain embodiments, the regions of a gapmer are differentiated by the types of sugar moieties comprising each distinct region. The types of sugar moieties that are used to differentiate the regions of a gapmer may in some embodiments include β-D-ribonucleosides, β-D-deoxyribonucleosides, 2′-modified nucleosides (such 2′-modified nucleosides may include 2′-MOE and 2′-O—CH₃, among others), and bicyclic sugar modified nucleosides (such bicyclic sugar modified nucleosides may include those having a constrained ethyl). In certain embodiments, wings may include several modified sugar moieties, including, for example 2′-MOE and constrained ethyl. In certain embodiments, wings may include several modified and unmodified sugar moieties. In certain embodiments, wings may include various combinations of 2′-MOE nucleosides, constrained ethyl nucleosides, and 2′-deoxynucleosides.

Each distinct region may comprise uniform sugar moieties, variant, or alternating sugar moieties. The wing-gap-wing motif is frequently described as “X-Y-Z”, where “X” represents the length of the 5′-wing, “Y” represents the length of the gap, and “Z” represents the length of the 3′-wing. “X” and “Z” may comprise uniform, variant, or alternating sugar moieties. In certain embodiments, “X” and “Y” may include one or more 2′-deoxynucleosides.“Y” may comprise 2′-deoxynucleosides. As used herein, a gapmer described as “X-Y-Z” has a configuration such that the gap is positioned immediately adjacent to each of the 5′-wing and the 3′ wing. Thus, no intervening nucleotides exist between the 5′-wing and gap, or the gap and the 3′-wing. Any of the antisense compounds described herein can have a gapmer motif. In certain embodiments, “X” and “Z” are the same, in other embodiments they are different. In certain embodiments, “Y” is between 8 and 15 nucleosides. X, Y, or Z can be any of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30 or more nucleosides.

In certain embodiments, antisense compounds targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid possess a 5-10-5 gapmer motif.

In certain embodiments, antisense compounds targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid possess a 3-10-4 gapmer motif.

Target Nucleic Acids, Target Regions and Nucleotide Sequences

In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 nucleic acid is any of the sequences set forth in GENBANK Accession No. NM_—002011.3 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 1), GENBANK Accession No: NT_—023133.11 truncated from nucleosides 21323018 to 21335213 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 2); GENBANK Accession No. AB209631.1 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 3) and GENBANK Accession No NM_—022963.2 (incorporated herein as SEQ ID NO: 4). In certain embodiments, FGFR4 has the rhesus monkey sequence as set forth in GENBANK Accession No. NW_—001121000.1 truncated from nucleosides 3094000 to 3109000 (SEQ ID NO: 5 In certain embodiments, FGFR4 has the murine sequence as set forth in GENBANK Accession No. BC033313.1 (SEQ ID NO: 6).

It is understood that the sequence set forth in each SEQ ID NO in the Examples contained herein is independent of any modification to a sugar moiety, an internucleoside linkage, or a nucleobase. As such, antisense compounds defined by a SEQ ID NO may comprise, independently, one or more modifications to a sugar moiety, an internucleoside linkage, or a nucleobase. Antisense compounds described by Isis Number (Isis No) indicate a combination of nucleobase sequence and motif.

In certain embodiments, a target region is a structurally defined region of the target nucleic acid. For example, a target region may encompass a 3′ UTR, a 5′ UTR, an exon, an intron, an exon/intron junction, a coding region, a translation initiation region, translation termination region, or other defined nucleic acid region. The structurally defined regions for FGFR4 can be obtained by accession number from sequence databases such as NCBI and such information is incorporated herein by reference. In certain embodiments, a target region may encompass the sequence from a 5′ target site of one target segment within the target region to a 3′ target site of another target segment within the same target region.

Targeting includes determination of at least one target segment to which an antisense compound hybridizes, such that a desired effect occurs. In certain embodiments, the desired effect is a reduction in mRNA target nucleic acid levels. In certain embodiments, the desired effect is reduction of levels of protein encoded by the target nucleic acid or a phenotypic change associated with the target nucleic acid.

A target region may contain one or more target segments. Multiple target segments within a target region may be overlapping. Alternatively, they may be non-overlapping. In certain embodiments, target segments within a target region are separated by no more than about 300 nucleotides. In certain embodiments, target segments within a target region are separated by a number of nucleotides that is, is about, is no more than, is no more than about, 250, 200, 150, 100, 90, 80, 70, 60, 50, 40, 30, 20, or 10 nucleotides on the target nucleic acid, or is a range defined by any two of the preceeding values. In certain embodiments, target segments within a target region are separated by no more than, or no more than about, 5 nucleotides on the target nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, target segments are contiguous. Contemplated are target regions defined by a range having a starting nucleic acid that is any of the 5′ target sites or 3′ target sites listed herein.

Suitable target segments may be found within a 5′ UTR, a coding region, a 3′ UTR, an intron, an exon, or an exon/intron junction. Target segments containing a start codon or a stop codon are also suitable target segments. A suitable target segment may specifically exclude a certain structurally defined region such as the start codon or stop codon.

The determination of suitable target segments may include a comparison of the sequence of a target nucleic acid to other sequences throughout the genome. For example, the BLAST algorithm may be used to identify regions of similarity amongst different nucleic acids. This comparison can prevent the selection of antisense compound sequences that may hybridize in a non-specific manner to sequences other than a selected target nucleic acid (i.e., non-target or off-target sequences).

There may be variation in activity (e.g., as defined by percent reduction of target nucleic acid levels) of the antisense compounds within an active target region. In certain embodiments, reductions in FGFR4 mRNA levels are indicative of inhibition of FGFR4 expression. Reductions in levels of a FGFR4 protein are also indicative of inhibition of target mRNA expression. Further, phenotypic changes are indicative of inhibition of FGFR4 expression. In certain embodiments, reduced glucose levels, reduced lipid levels, and reduced body weight can be indicative of inhibition of FGFR4 expression. In certain embodiments, amelioration of symptoms associated with metabolic disease can be indicative of inhibition of FGFR4 expression. In certain embodiments, amelioration of symptoms associated with diabetes can be indicative of inhibition of FGFR4 expression. In certain embodiments, reduction of insulin resistance is indicative of inhibition of FGFR4 expression. In certain embodiments, reduction of diabetes biomarkers can be indicative of inhibition of FGFR4 expression. In certain embodiments, reduction of FGFR4 expression is accompanied by an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 gene expression and/or an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 protein levels. In certain embodiments, reduction of FGFR4 expression is accompanied by an increase in ileum FGF15 and/or ileum FGF19 gene expression and plasma FGF15 and/or plasma FGF19 protein levels. Therefore, certain embodiments provide methods of measuring reduction of FGFR expression by measuring an increase in ileum FGF15 and/or ileum FGF19 gene expression and plasma FGF15 and/or plasma FGF19 protein levels. In certain embodiments, a biomarker of the anti-obesity effect of an FGFR4 inhibitor is an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 gene expression levels. In certain embodiments, a biomarker of the anti-obesity effect of an FGFR4 inhibitor is an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 protein levels. In certain embodiments, a biomarker of FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotide-caused anti-obesity effect is an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 gene expression levels. In certain embodiments, a biomarker of FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotide-caused anti-obesity effect is an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 protein levels. In certain embodiments, a biomarker of FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotide-caused anti-obesity effect is an increase in FGF15 and/or FGF19 gene expression levels.

Certain embodiments provide methods of detecting the anti-obesity effect of a FGFR4 inhibitor in an animal by measuring an increase in ileum FGF15 and/or ileum FGF19 gene expression and plasma FGF15 and/or plasma FGF19 protein levels.

Certain embodiments provide methods of detecting the anti-obesity effect of a FGFR4 inhibitor in an animal comprising: (a) measuring FGF15 gene expression in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF15 gene expression after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF15 gene expression. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods of detecting the anti-obesity effect of a FGFR4 inhibitor in an animal comprising: (a) measuring FGF19 gene expression in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF19 gene expression after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF19 gene expression. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods of detecting the anti-obesity effect of a FGFR4 inhibitor in an animal comprising: (a) measuring FGF15 protein levels in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF15 protein levels after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF15 protein levels. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods of detecting the anti-obesity effect of a FGFR4 inhibitor in an animal comprising: (a) measuring FGF19 protein levels in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF19 protein levels after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF19 protein levels. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods for predicting responsiveness of an animal to an FGFR4 inhibitor comprising: (a) measuring FGF15 gene expression in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF15 gene expression after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF15 gene expression. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods for predicting responsiveness of an animal to an FGFR4 inhibitor comprising: (a) measuring FGF19 gene expression in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF19 gene expression after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF19 gene expression. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods for predicting responsiveness of an animal to an FGFR4 inhibitor by measuring an increase in ileum FGF15 and/or ileum FGF19 gene expression and plasma FGF15 and/or plasma FGF19 protein levels.

Certain embodiments provide methods for predicting responsiveness of an animal to an FGFR4 inhibitor comprising: (a) measuring FGF15 protein levels in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF15 protein levels after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF15 protein levels. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Certain embodiments provide methods for predicting responsiveness of an animal to an FGFR4 inhibitor comprising: (a) measuring FGF19 protein levels in an individual prior to administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (b) administering an FGFR4 inhibitor (c) measuring FGF19 protein levels after administration of a FGFR4 inhibitor (d) detecting an increase of FGF19 protein levels. In certain embodiments, the FGFR4 inhibitor is a modified antisense oligonucleotide targeted to FGFR4.

Hybridization

In some embodiments, hybridization occurs between an antisense compound disclosed herein and a FGFR4 nucleic acid. The most common mechanism of hybridization involves hydrogen bonding (e.g., Watson-Crick, Hoogsteen or reversed Hoogsteen hydrogen bonding) between complementary nucleobases of the nucleic acid molecules.

Hybridization can occur under varying conditions. Stringent conditions are sequence-dependent and are determined by the nature and composition of the nucleic acid molecules to be hybridized.

Methods of determining whether a sequence is specifically hybridizable to a target nucleic acid are well known in the art. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds provided herein are specifically hybridizable with a FGFR4 nucleic acid.

Complementarity

An antisense compound and a target nucleic acid are complementary to each other when a sufficient number of nucleobases of the antisense compound can hydrogen bond with the corresponding nucleobases of the target nucleic acid, such that a desired effect will occur (e.g., antisense inhibition of a target nucleic acid, such as a FGFR4 nucleic acid).

An antisense compound may hybridize over one or more segments of a FGFR4 nucleic acid such that intervening or adjacent segments are not involved in the hybridization event (e.g., a loop structure, mismatch or hairpin structure).

In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds provided herein, or a specified portion thereof, are, or are at least, 70%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% complementary to a FGFR4 nucleic acid, a target region, target segment, or specified portion thereof. Percent complementarity of an antisense compound with a target nucleic acid can be determined using routine methods.

For example, an antisense compound in which 18 of 20 nucleobases of the antisense compound are complementary to a target region, and would therefore specifically hybridize, would represent 90 percent complementarity. In this example, the remaining non-complementary nucleobases may be clustered or interspersed with complementary nucleobases and need not be contiguous to each other or to complementary nucleobases. As such, an antisense compound which is 18 nucleobases in length having 4 (four) non-complementary nucleobases which are flanked by two regions of complete complementarity with the target nucleic acid would have 77.8% overall complementarity with the target nucleic acid and would thus fall within the scope of the present invention. Percent complementarity of an antisense compound with a region of a target nucleic acid can be determined routinely using BLAST programs (basic local alignment search tools) and PowerBLAST programs known in the art (Altschul et al., J. Mol. Biol., 1990, 215, 403 410; Zhang and Madden, Genome Res., 1997, 7, 649 656). Percent homology, sequence identity or complementarity, can be determined by, for example, the Gap program (Wisconsin Sequence Analysis Package, Version 8 for Unix, Genetics Computer Group, University Research Park, Madison Wis.), using default settings, which uses the algorithm of Smith and Waterman (Adv. Appl. Math., 1981, 2, 482 489).

In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds provided herein, or specified portions thereof, are fully complementary (i.e. 100% complementary) to a target nucleic acid, or specified portion thereof. For example, antisense compound may be fully complementary to a FGFR4 nucleic acid, or a target region, or a target segment or target sequence thereof. As used herein, “fully complementary” means each nucleobase of an antisense compound is capable of precise base pairing with the corresponding nucleobases of a target nucleic acid. For example, a 20 nucleobase antisense compound is fully complementary to a target sequence that is 400 nucleobases long, so long as there is a corresponding 20 nucleobase portion of the target nucleic acid that is fully complementary to the antisense compound. Fully complementary can also be used in reference to a specified portion of the first and/or the second nucleic acid. For example, a 20 nucleobase portion of a 30 nucleobase antisense compound can be “fully complementary” to a target sequence that is 400 nucleobases long. The 20 nucleobase portion of the 30 nucleobase oligonucleotide is fully complementary to the target sequence if the target sequence has a corresponding 20 nucleobase portion wherein each nucleobase is complementary to the 20 nucleobase portion of the antisense compound. At the same time, the entire 30 nucleobase antisense compound may or may not be fully complementary to the target sequence, depending on whether the remaining 10 nucleobases of the antisense compound are also complementary to the target sequence.

The location of a non-complementary nucleobase may be at the 5′ end or 3′ end of the antisense compound. Alternatively, the non-complementary nucleobase or nucleobases may be at an internal position of the antisense compound. When two or more non-complementary nucleobases are present, they may be contiguous (i.e. linked) or non-contiguous. In one embodiment, a non-complementary nucleobase is located in the wing segment of a gapmer antisense oligonucleotide.

In certain embodiments, antisense compounds that are, or are up to 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 nucleobases in length comprise no more than 4, no more than 3, no more than 2, or no more than 1 non-complementary nucleobase(s) relative to a target nucleic acid, such as a FGFR4 nucleic acid, or specified portion thereof.

In certain embodiments, antisense compounds that are, or are up to 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 nucleobases in length comprise no more than 6, no more than 5, no more than 4, no more than 3, no more than 2, or no more than 1 non-complementary nucleobase(s) relative to a target nucleic acid, such as a FGFR4 nucleic acid, or specified portion thereof.

The antisense compounds provided herein also include those which are complementary to a portion of a target nucleic acid. As used herein, “portion” refers to a defined number of contiguous (i.e. linked) nucleobases within a region or segment of a target nucleic acid. A “portion” can also refer to a defined number of contiguous nucleobases of an antisense compound. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds, are complementary to at least an 8 nucleobase portion of a target segment. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds are complementary to at least a 12 nucleobase portion of a target segment. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds are complementary to at least a 13 nucleobase portion of a target segment. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds are complementary to at least a 14 nucleobase portion of a target segment. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds are complementary to at least a 15 nucleobase portion of a target segment. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds are complementary to at least a 16 nucleobase portion of a target segment. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds are complementary to at least a 17 nucleobase portion of a target segment. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds are complementary to at least a 18 nucleobase portion of a target segment. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds are complementary to at least a 19 nucleobase portion of a target segment. In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds are complementary to at least a 20 nucleobase portion of a target segment. Also contemplated are antisense compounds that are complementary to at least a 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or more nucleobase portion of a target segment, or a range defined by any two of these values.

Identity

The antisense compounds provided herein may also have a defined percent identity to a particular nucleotide sequence, SEQ ID NO, or compound represented by a specific Isis number, or portion thereof. As used herein, an antisense compound is identical to the sequence disclosed herein if it has the same nucleobase pairing ability. For example, a RNA which contains uracil in place of thymidine in a disclosed DNA sequence would be considered identical to the DNA sequence since both uracil and thymidine pair with adenine. Shortened and lengthened versions of the antisense compounds described herein as well as compounds having non-identical bases relative to the antisense compounds provided herein also are contemplated. The non-identical bases may be adjacent to each other or dispersed throughout the antisense compound. Percent identity of an antisense compound is calculated according to the number of bases that have identical base pairing relative to the sequence to which it is being compared.

In certain embodiments, the antisense compounds, or portions thereof, are at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% identical to one or more of the antisense compounds or SEQ ID NOs, or a portion thereof, disclosed herein.

Modifications

A nucleoside is a base-sugar combination. The nucleobase (also known as base) portion of the nucleoside is normally a heterocyclic base moiety. Nucleotides are nucleosides that further include a phosphate group covalently linked to the sugar portion of the nucleoside. For those nucleosides that include a pentofuranosyl sugar, the phosphate group can be linked to the 2′, 3′ or 5′ hydroxyl moiety of the sugar. Oligonucleotides are formed through the covalent linkage of adjacent nucleosides to one another, to form a linear polymeric oligonucleotide. Within the oligonucleotide structure, the phosphate groups are commonly referred to as forming the internucleoside linkages of the oligonucleotide.

Modifications to antisense compounds encompass substitutions or changes to internucleoside linkages, sugar moieties, or nucleobases. Modified antisense compounds are often preferred over native forms because of desirable properties such as, for example, enhanced cellular uptake, enhanced affinity for nucleic acid target, increased stability in the presence of nucleases, or increased inhibitory activity.

Chemically modified nucleosides may also be employed to increase the binding affinity of a shortened or truncated antisense oligonucleotide for its target nucleic acid. Consequently, comparable results can often be obtained with shorter antisense compounds that have such chemically modified nucleosides.

Modified Internucleoside Linkages

The naturally occurring internucleoside linkage of RNA and DNA is a 3′ to 5′ phosphodiester linkage. Antisense compounds having one or more modified, i.e. non-naturally occurring, internucleoside linkages are often selected over antisense compounds having naturally occurring internucleoside linkages because of desirable properties such as, for example, enhanced cellular uptake, enhanced affinity for target nucleic acids, and increased stability in the presence of nucleases.

Oligonucleotides having modified internucleoside linkages include internucleoside linkages that retain a phosphorus atom as well as internucleoside linkages that do not have a phosphorus atom. Representative phosphorus containing internucleoside linkages include, but are not limited to, phosphodiesters, phosphotriesters, methylphosphonates, phosphoramidate, and phosphorothioates. Methods of preparation of phosphorous-containing and non-phosphorous-containing linkages are well known.

In certain embodiments, antisense compounds targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid comprise one or more modified internucleoside linkages. In certain embodiments, the modified internucleoside linkages are phosphorothioate linkages. In certain embodiments, each internucleoside linkage of an antisense compound is a phosphorothioate internucleoside linkage.

Modified Sugar Moieties

Antisense compounds provided herein can optionally contain one or more nucleosides wherein the sugar group has been modified. Such sugar modified nucleosides may impart enhanced nuclease stability, increased binding affinity, or some other beneficial biological property to the antisense compounds. In certain embodiments, nucleosides comprise a chemically modified ribofuranose ring moiety. Examples of chemically modified ribofuranose rings include, without limitation, addition of substitutent groups (including 5′ and 2′ substituent groups); bridging of non-geminal ring atoms to form bicyclic nucleic acids (BNA); replacement of the ribosyl ring oxygen atom with S, N(R), or C(R1)(R)2 (R=H, C₁-C₁₂ alkyl or a protecting group); and combinations thereof. Examples of chemically modified sugars include, 2′-F-5′-methyl substituted nucleoside (see, PCT International Application WO 2008/101157, published on Aug. 21, 2008 for other disclosed 5′,2′-bis substituted nucleosides), replacement of the ribosyl ring oxygen atom with S with further substitution at the 2′-position (see, published U.S. Patent Application US2005/0130923, published on Jun. 16, 2005), or, alternatively, 5′-substitution of a BNA (see, PCT International Application WO 2007/134181, published on Nov. 22, 2007, wherein LNA is substituted with, for example, a 5′-methyl or a 5′-vinyl group).

Examples of nucleosides having modified sugar moieties include, without limitation, nucleosides comprising 5′-vinyl, 5′-methyl (R or S), 4′-S, 2′-F, 2′-OCH₃, and 2′-O(CH₂)2OCH₃ substituent groups. The substituent at the 2′ position can also be selected from allyl, amino, azido, thio, O-allyl, O—C₁-C₁₀ alkyl, OCF₃, O(CH₂)2SCH₃, O(CH₂)2-O—N(Rm)(Rn), and O—CH₂—C(═O)—N(Rm)(Rn), where each Rm and Rn is, independently, H or substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₁₀ alkyl.

As used herein, “bicyclic nucleosides” refer to modified nucleosides comprising a bicyclic sugar moiety. Examples of bicyclic nucleosides include, without limitation, nucleosides comprising a bridge between the 4′ and the 2′ ribosyl ring atoms. In certain embodiments, antisense compounds provided herein include one or more bicyclic nucleosides wherein the bridge comprises a 4′ to 2′ bicyclic nucleoside. Examples of such 4′ to 2′ bicyclic nucleosides, include, but are not limited to, one of the formulae: 4′-(CH₂)—O-2′ (LNA); 4′-(CH₂)—S-2; 4′-(CH₂)₂—O-2′ (ENA); 4′-CH(CH₃)—O-2′ and 4′-CH(CH₂OCH₃)—O-2′, and analogs thereof (see, U.S. Pat. No. 7,399,845, issued on Jul. 15, 2008); 4′-C(CH₃)(CH₃)—O-2′, and analogs thereof (see, published PCT International Application WO2009/006478, published Jan. 8, 2009); 4′-CH₂—N(OCH₃)-2′, and analogs thereof (see, published PCT International Application WO2008/150729, published Dec. 11, 2008); 4′-CH₂—O—N(CH₃)-2′ (see, published U.S. Patent Application US2004/0171570, published Sep. 2, 2004); 4′-CH₂—N(R)—O-2′, wherein R is H, C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, or a protecting group (see, U.S. Pat. No. 7,427,672, issued on Sep. 23, 2008); 4′-CH₂—C(H)(CH₃)-2′ (see, Chattopadhyaya, et al., J. Org. Chem., 2009, 74, 118-134); and 4′-CH₂—C(═CH₂)-2′, and analogs thereof (see, published PCT International Application WO 2008/154401, published on Dec. 8, 2008). Also see, for example: Singh et al., Chem. Commun., 1998, 4, 455-456; Koshkin et al., Tetrahedron, 1998, 54, 3607-3630; Wahlestedt et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A., 2000, 97, 5633-5638; Kumar et al., Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett., 1998, 8, 2219-2222; Singh et al., J. Org. Chem., 1998, 63, 10035-10039; Srivastava et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 129(26) 8362-8379 (Jul. 4, 2007); Elayadi et al., Curr. Opinion Invens. Drugs, 2001, 2, 558-561; Braasch et al., Chem. Biol., 2001, 8, 1-7; Orum et al., Curr. Opinion Mol. Ther., 2001, 3, 239-243; U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,670,461, 7,053,207, 6,268,490, 6,770,748, 6,794,499, 7,034,133, 6,525,191, 7,399,845; published PCT International applications WO 2004/106356, WO 94/14226, WO 2005/021570, and WO 2007/134181; U.S. Patent Publication Nos. US2004/0171570, US2007/0287831, and US2008/0039618; and U.S. patent Ser. Nos. 12/129,154, 60/989,574, 61/026,995, 61/026,998, 61/056,564, 61/086,231, 61/097,787, and 61/099,844; and PCT International Application Nos. PCT/US2008/064591, PCT/US2008/066154, and PCT/US2008/068922. Each of the foregoing bicyclic nucleosides can be prepared having one or more stereochemical sugar configurations including for example α-L-ribofuranose and β-D-ribofuranose (see PCT international application PCT/DK98/00393, published on Mar. 25, 1999 as WO 99/14226).

In certain embodiments, bicyclic sugar moieties of BNA nucleosides include, but are not limited to, compounds having at least one bridge between the 4′ and the 2′ position of the pentofuranosyl sugar moiety wherein such bridges independently comprises 1 or from 2 to 4 linked groups independently selected from —[C(R_a)(R_b)]_n—, —C(R_a)═C(R_b)—, —C(R_a)═N—, —C(═NR_a)—, —C(═O)—, —C(═S)—, —O—, —Si(R_a)₂—, —S(═O)_x—, and —N(R_a)—;

wherein:

x is 0, 1, or 2;

n is 1, 2, 3, or 4;

each R_a and R_b is, independently, H, a protecting group, hydroxyl, C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, substituted C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, C₂-C₁₂ alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₁₂ alkenyl, C₂-C₁₂ alkynyl, substituted C₂-C₁₂ alkynyl, C₅-C₂₀ aryl, substituted C₅-C₂₀ aryl, heterocycle radical, substituted heterocycle radical, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, C₅-C₇ alicyclic radical, substituted C₅-C₇ alicyclic radical, halogen, OJ₁, NJ₁J₂, SJ₁, N₃, COOJ₁, acyl (C(═O)—H), substituted acyl, CN, sulfonyl (S(═O)₂-J₁), or sulfoxyl (S(═O)-J₁); and

each J₁ and J₂ is, independently, H, C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, substituted C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, C₂-C₁₂ alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₁₂ alkenyl, C₂-C₁₂ alkynyl, substituted C₂-C₁₂ alkynyl, C₅-C₂₀ aryl, substituted C₅-C₂₀ aryl, acyl (C(═O)—H), substituted acyl, a heterocycle radical, a substituted heterocycle radical, C₁-C₁₂ aminoalkyl, substituted C₁-C₁₂ aminoalkyl, or a protecting group.

In certain embodiments, the bridge of a bicyclic sugar moiety is, —[C(R_a)(R_b)]_n—, —[C(R_a)(R_b)]_n—O—, —C(R_aR_b)—N(R)—O— or, —C(R_aR_b)—O—N(R)—. In certain embodiments, the bridge is 4′-CH₂-2′, 4′-(CH₂)₂-2′, 4′-(CH₂)₃-2′, 4′-CH₂—O-2′, 4′-(CH₂)₂—O-2′, 4′-CH₂—O—N(R)-2′, and 4′-CH₂—N(R)—O-2′-, wherein each R is, independently, H, a protecting group, or C₁-C₁₂ alkyl.

In certain embodiments, bicyclic nucleosides are further defined by isomeric configuration. For example, a nucleoside comprising a 4′-2′ methylene-oxy bridge, may be in the α-L configuration or in the β-D configuration. Previously, α-L-methyleneoxy (4′-CH₂—O-2′) BNA's have been incorporated into antisense oligonucleotides that showed antisense activity (Frieden et al., Nucleic Acids Research, 2003, 21, 6365-6372).

In certain embodiments, bicyclic nucleosides include, but are not limited to, (A) α-L-Methyleneoxy (4′-CH₂—O-2′) BNA, (B) β-D-Methyleneoxy (4′-CH₂—O-2′) BNA, (C) Ethyleneoxy (4′-(CH₂)₂—O-2′) BNA, (D) Aminooxy (4′-CH₂—O—N(R)-2′) BNA, (E) Oxyamino (4′-CH₂—N(R)—O-2′) BNA, (F) Methyl(methyleneoxy) (4′-CH(CH₃)—O-2′) BNA, (G) methylene-thio (4′-CH₂—S-2′) BNA, (H) methylene-amino (4′-CH2-N(R)-2′) BNA, (I) methyl carbocyclic (4′-CH₂—CH(CH₃)-2′) BNA, and (J) propylene carbocyclic (4′-(CH₂)₃-2′) BNA as depicted below.

wherein Bx is the base moiety and R is, independently, H, a protecting group or C₁-C₁₂ alkyl.

In certain embodiments, bicyclic nucleoside having Formula I:

wherein:

Bx is a heterocyclic base moiety;

-Q_a-Q_b-Q_c- is —CH₂—N(R_c)—CH₂—, —C(═O)—N(R_c)—CH₂—, —CH₂—O—N(R_c)—, —CH₂—N(R_c)—O—, or —N(R_c)—O—CH₂;

R_c is C₁-C₁₂ alkyl or an amino protecting group; and

T_a and T_b are each, independently, H, a hydroxyl protecting group, a conjugate group, a reactive phosphorus group, a phosphorus moiety, or a covalent attachment to a support medium.

In certain embodiments, bicyclic nucleoside having Formula II:

wherein:

Bx is a heterocyclic base moiety;

T_a and T_b are each, independently, H, a hydroxyl protecting group, a conjugate group, a reactive phosphorus group, a phosphorus moiety, or a covalent attachment to a support medium;

Z_a is C₁-C₆ alkyl, C₂-C₆ alkenyl, C₂-C₆ alkynyl, substituted C₁-C₆ alkyl, substituted C₂-C₆ alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₆ alkynyl, acyl, substituted acyl, substituted amide, thiol, or substituted thio.

In one embodiment, each of the substituted groups is, independently, mono or poly substituted with substituent groups independently selected from halogen, oxo, hydroxyl, OJ_c, NJ_cJ_d, SJ_c, N₃, OC(═X)J_c, and NJ_eC(═X)NJ_cJ_d, wherein each J_c, J_d, and J_e is, independently, H, C₁-C₆ alkyl, or substituted C₁-C₆ alkyl and X is O or NJ_e.

In certain embodiments, bicyclic nucleoside having Formula III:

wherein:

Bx is a heterocyclic base moiety;

T_a and T_b are each, independently, H, a hydroxyl protecting group, a conjugate group, a reactive phosphorus group, a phosphorus moiety, or a covalent attachment to a support medium;

Z_b is C₁-C₆ alkyl, C₂-C₆ alkenyl, C₂-C₆ alkynyl, substituted C₁-C₆ alkyl, substituted C₂-C₆ alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₆ alkynyl, or substituted acyl (C(═O)—).

In certain embodiments, bicyclic nucleoside having Formula IV:

wherein:

Bx is a heterocyclic base moiety;

T_a and T_b are each, independently H, a hydroxyl protecting group, a conjugate group, a reactive phosphorus group, a phosphorus moiety, or a covalent attachment to a support medium;

R_d is C₁-C₆ alkyl, substituted C₁-C₆ alkyl, C₂-C₆ alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₆ alkenyl, C₂-C₆ alkynyl, or substituted C₂-C₆ alkynyl;

each q_a, q_b, q_c and q_d is, independently, H, halogen, C₁-C₆ alkyl, substituted C₁-C₆ alkyl, C₂-C₆ alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₆ alkenyl, C₂-C₆ alkynyl, or substituted C₂-C₆ alkynyl, C₁-C₆ alkoxyl, substituted C₁-C₆ alkoxyl, acyl, substituted acyl, C₁-C₆ aminoalkyl, or substituted C₁-C₆ aminoalkyl;

In certain embodiments, bicyclic nucleoside having Formula V:

wherein:

Bx is a heterocyclic base moiety;

T_a and T_b are each, independently, H, a hydroxyl protecting group, a conjugate group, a reactive phosphorus group, a phosphorus moiety, or a covalent attachment to a support medium;

q_a, q_b, q_e and q_f are each, independently, hydrogen, halogen, C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, substituted C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, C₂-C₁₂ alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₁₂ alkenyl, C₂-C₁₂ alkynyl, substituted C₂-C₁₂ alkynyl, C₁-C₁₂ alkoxy, substituted C₁-C₁₂ alkoxy, OJ_j, SJ_j, SOJ_j, SO₂J_j, NJ_jJ_k, N₃, CN, C(═O)OJ_j, C(═O)NJ_jJ_k, C(═O)J_j, O—C(═O)NJ_jJ_k, N(H)C(═NH)NJ_jJ_k, N(H)C(═O)NJ_jJ_k or N(H)C(═S)NJ_jJ_k;

or q_e and q_f together are ═C(q_g)(q_h);

q_g and q_h are each, independently, H, halogen, C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, or substituted C₁-C₁₂ alkyl.

The synthesis and preparation of the methyleneoxy (4′-CH₂—O-2′) BNA monomers adenine, cytosine, guanine, 5-methyl-cytosine, thymine, and uracil, along with their oligomerization, and nucleic acid recognition properties have been described (see, e.g., Koshkin et al., Tetrahedron, 1998, 54, 3607-3630). BNAs and preparation thereof are also described in WO 98/39352 and WO 99/14226.

Analogs of methyleneoxy (4′-CH₂—O-2′) BNA, methyleneoxy (4′-CH₂—O-2′) BNA, and 2′-thio-BNAs, have also been prepared (see, e.g., Kumar et al., Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett., 1998, 8, 2219-2222). Preparation of locked nucleoside analogs comprising oligodeoxyribonucleotide duplexes as substrates for nucleic acid polymerases has also been described (see, e.g., Wengel et al., WO 99/14226). Furthermore, synthesis of 2′-amino-BNA, a novel comformationally restricted high-affinity oligonucleotide analog, has been described in the art (see, e.g., Singh et al., J. Org. Chem., 1998, 63, 10035-10039). In addition, 2′-amino- and 2′-methylamino-BNA's have been prepared and the thermal stability of their duplexes with complementary RNA and DNA strands has been previously reported.

In certain embodiments, bicyclic nucleoside having Formula VI:

wherein:

Bx is a heterocyclic base moiety;

T_a and T_b are each, independently, H, a hydroxyl protecting group, a conjugate group, a reactive phosphorus group, a phosphorus moiety, or a covalent attachment to a support medium;

each q_i, q_j, q_k and q_l is, independently, H, halogen, C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, substituted C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, C₂-C₁₂ alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₁₂ alkenyl, C₂-C₁₂ alkynyl, substituted C₂-C₁₂ alkynyl, C₁-C₁₂ alkoxyl, substituted C₁-C₁₂ alkoxyl, OJ_j, SJ_j, SOJ_j, SO₂J_j, NJ_jJ_k, N₃, CN, C(═O)OJ_j, C(═O)NJ_jJ_k, C(═O)J_j, O—C(═O)NJ_jJ_k, N(H)C(═NH)NJ_jJ_k, N(H)C(═O)NJ_jJ_k, or N(H)C(═S)NJ_jJ_k; and

q_i and q_j or q_l and q_k together are ═C(q_g)(q_h), wherein q_g and q_h are each, independently, H, halogen, C₁-C₁₂ alkyl, or substituted C₁-C₁₂ alkyl.

One carbocyclic bicyclic nucleoside having a 4′-(CH₂)₃-2′ bridge and the alkenyl analog, bridge 4′-CH═CH—CH₂-2′, have been described (see, e.g., Freier et al., Nucleic Acids Research, 1997, 25(22), 4429-4443 and Albaek et al., J. Org. Chem., 2006, 71, 7731-7740). The synthesis and preparation of carbocyclic bicyclic nucleosides along with their oligomerization and biochemical studies have also been described (see, e.g., Srivastava et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2007, 129(26), 8362-8379).

As used herein, “4′-2′ bicyclic nucleoside” or “4′ to 2′ bicyclic nucleoside” refers to a bicyclic nucleoside comprising a furanose ring comprising a bridge connecting the 2′ carbon atom and the 4′ carbon atom.

As used herein, “monocylic nucleosides” refer to nucleosides comprising modified sugar moieties that are not bicyclic sugar moieties. In certain embodiments, the sugar moiety, or sugar moiety analogue, of a nucleoside may be modified or substituted at any position.

As used herein, “2′-modified sugar” means a furanosyl sugar modified at the 2′ position. In certain embodiments, such modifications include substituents selected from: a halide, including, but not limited to substituted and unsubstituted alkoxy, substituted and unsubstituted thioalkyl, substituted and unsubstituted amino alkyl, substituted and unsubstituted alkyl, substituted and unsubstituted allyl, and substituted and unsubstituted alkynyl. In certain embodiments, 2′ modifications are selected from substituents including, but not limited to: O[(CH₂)_mO]_mCH₃, O(CH₂)_nNH₂, O(CH₂)_nCH₃, O(CH₂)_nONH₂, OCH₂C(═O)N(H)CH₃, and O(CH₂)_nON[(CH₂)_nCH₃]₂, where n and m are from 1 to about 10. Other 2′-substituent groups can also be selected from: C₁-C₁₂ alkyl; substituted alkyl; alkenyl; alkynyl; alkaryl; aralkyl; O-alkaryl or O-aralkyl; SH; SCH₃; OCN; Cl; Br; CN; CF₃; OCF₃; SOCH₃; SO₂CH₃; ONO₂; NO₂; N₃; NH₂; heterocycloalkyl; heterocycloalkaryl; aminoalkylamino; polyalkylamino; substituted silyl; an RNA cleaving group; a reporter group; an intercalator; a group for improving pharmacokinetic properties; and a group for improving the pharmacodynamic properties of an antisense compound, and other substituents having similar properties. In certain embodiments, modifed nucleosides comprise a 2′-MOE side chain (see, e.g., Baker et al., J. Biol. Chem., 1997, 272, 11944-12000). Such 2′-MOE substitution have been described as having improved binding affinity compared to unmodified nucleosides and to other modified nucleosides, such as 2′-O-methyl, O-propyl, and O-aminopropyl. Oligonucleotides having the 2′-MOE substituent also have been shown to be antisense inhibitors of gene expression with promising features for in vivo use (see, e.g., Martin, P., Helv. Chim. Acta, 1995, 78, 486-504; Altmann et al., Chimia, 1996, 50, 168-176; Altmann et al., Biochem. Soc. Trans., 1996, 24, 630-637; and Altmann et al., Nucleosides Nucleotides, 1997, 16, 917-926).

As used herein, a “modified tetrahydropyran nucleoside” or “modified THP nucleoside” means a nucleoside having a six-membered tetrahydropyran “sugar” substituted in for the pentofuranosyl residue in normal nucleosides (a sugar surrogate). Modified THP nucleosides include, but are not limited to, what is referred to in the art as hexitol nucleic acid (HNA), anitol nucleic acid (ANA), manitol nucleic acid (MNA) (see Leumann, C J. Bioorg. & Med. Chem. (2002) 10:841-854), fluoro HNA (F-HNA), or those compounds having Formula X:

Formula X:

wherein independently for each of said at least one tetrahydropyran nucleoside analog of Formula X:

Bx is a heterocyclic base moiety;

T₃ and T₄ are each, independently, an internucleoside linking group linking the tetrahydropyran nucleoside analog to the antisense compound or one of T₃ and T₄ is an internucleoside linking group linking the tetrahydropyran nucleoside analog to the antisense compound and the other of T₃ and T₄ is H, a hydroxyl protecting group, a linked conjugate group, or a 5′ or 3′-terminal group;

q₁, q₂, q₃, q₄, q₅, q₆ and q₇ are each, independently, H, C₁-C₆ alkyl, substituted C₁-C₆ alkyl, C₂-C₆ alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₆ alkenyl, C₂-C₆ alkynyl, or substituted C₂-C₆ alkynyl; and

one of R₁ and R₂ is hydrogen and the other is selected from halogen, substituted or unsubstituted alkoxy, NJ₁J₂, SJ₁, N₃, OC(═X)J₁, OC(═X)NJ₁J₂, NJ₃C(═X)NJ₁J₂, and CN, wherein X is O, S, or NJ₁, and each J₁, J₂, and J₃ is, independently, H or C₁-C₆ alkyl.

In certain embodiments, the modified THP nucleosides of Formula X are provided wherein q_m, q_n, q_p, q_r, q_s, q_t, and q_u are each H. In certain embodiments, at least one of q_m, q_n, q_p, q_r, q_s, q_t, and q_u is other than H. In certain embodiments, at least one of q_m, q_n, q_p, q_r, q_s, q_t and q_u is methyl. In certain embodiments, THP nucleosides of Formula X are provided wherein one of R₁ and R₂ is F. In certain embodiments, R₁ is fluoro and R₂ is H, R₁ is methoxy and R₂ is H, and R₁ is methoxyethoxy and R₂ is H.

As used herein, “2′-modified” or “2′-substituted” refers to a nucleoside comprising a sugar comprising a substituent at the 2′ position other than H or OH. 2′-modified nucleosides, include, but are not limited to, bicyclic nucleosides wherein the bridge connecting two carbon atoms of the sugar ring connects the 2′ carbon and another carbon of the sugar ring and nucleosides with non-bridging 2′ substituents, such as allyl, amino, azido, thio, O-allyl, O—C₁-C₁₀ alkyl, —OCF₃, O—(CH₂)₂—O—CH₃, 2′-O(CH₂)₂SCH₃, O—(CH₂)₂—O—N(R_m)(R_n), or O—CH₂—C(═O)—N(R_m)(R_n), where each R_m and R_n is, independently, H or substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₁₀ alkyl. 2′-modifed nucleosides may further comprise other modifications, for example, at other positions of the sugar and/or at the nucleobase.

As used herein, “2′-F” refers to a sugar comprising a fluoro group at the 2′ position.

As used herein, “2′-OMe” or “2′-OCH₃” or “2′-O-methyl” each refers to a sugar comprising an —OCH₃ group at the 2′ position of the sugar ring.

As used herein, “oligonucleotide” refers to a compound comprising a plurality of linked nucleosides. In certain embodiments, one or more of the plurality of nucleosides is modified. In certain embodiments, an oligonucleotide comprises one or more ribonucleosides (RNA) and/or deoxyribonucleosides (DNA).

Many other bicyclo and tricyclo sugar surrogate ring systems are also known in the art that can be used to modify nucleosides for incorporation into antisense compounds (see, e.g., review article: Leumann, J. C, Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry, 2002, 10, 841-854).

Such ring systems can undergo various additional substitutions to enhance activity.

Methods for the preparations of modified sugars are well known to those skilled in the art.

In nucleotides having modified sugar moieties, the nucleobase moieties (natural, modified, or a combination thereof) are maintained for hybridization with an appropriate nucleic acid target.

In certain embodiments, antisense compounds comprise one or more nucleotides having modified sugar moieties. In certain embodiments, the modified sugar moiety is 2′-MOE. In certain embodiments, the 2′-MOE modified nucleotides are arranged in a gapmer motif. In certain embodiments, the modified sugar moiety is a cEt. In certain embodiments, the cEt modified nucleotides are arranged throughout the wings of a gapmer motif

Modified Nucleobases

Nucleobase (or base) modifications or substitutions are structurally distinguishable from, yet functionally interchangeable with, naturally occurring or synthetic unmodified nucleobases. Both natural and modified nucleobases are capable of participating in hydrogen bonding. Such nucleobase modifications may impart nuclease stability, binding affinity or some other beneficial biological property to antisense compounds. Modified nucleobases include synthetic and natural nucleobases such as, for example, 5-methylcytosine (5-me-C). Certain nucleobase substitutions, including 5-methylcytosine substitutions, are particularly useful for increasing the binding affinity of an antisense compound for a target nucleic acid. For example, 5-methylcytosine substitutions have been shown to increase nucleic acid duplex stability by 0.6-1.2° C. (Sanghvi, Y. S., Crooke, S. T. and Lebleu, B., eds., Antisense Research and Applications, CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1993, pp. 276-278).

Additional unmodified nucleobases include 5-hydroxymethyl cytosine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, 2-aminoadenine, 6-methyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-propyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-thiouracil, 2-thiothymine and 2-thiocytosine, 5-halouracil and cytosine, 5-propynyl (—C≡C—CH₃) uracil and cytosine and other alkynyl derivatives of pyrimidine bases, 6-azo uracil, cytosine and thymine, 5-uracil (pseudouracil), 4-thiouracil, 8-halo, 8-amino, 8-thiol, 8-thioalkyl, 8-hydroxyl and other 8-substituted adenines and guanines, 5-halo particularly 5-bromo, 5-trifluoromethyl and other 5-substituted uracils and cytosines, 7-methylguanine and 7-methyladenine, 2-F-adenine, 2-amino-adenine, 8-azaguanine and 8-azaadenine, 7-deazaguanine and 7-deazaadenine and 3-deazaguanine and 3-deazaadenine.

Heterocyclic base moieties may also include those in which the purine or pyrimidine base is replaced with other heterocycles, for example 7-deaza-adenine, 7-deazaguanosine, 2-aminopyridine and 2-pyridone. Nucleobases that are particularly useful for increasing the binding affinity of antisense compounds include 5-substituted pyrimidines, 6-azapyrimidines and N-2, N-6 and 0-6 substituted purines, including 2 aminopropyladenine, 5-propynyluracil and 5-propynylcytosine.

In certain embodiments, antisense compounds targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid comprise one or more modified nucleobases. In certain embodiments, gap-widened antisense oligonucleotides targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid comprise one or more modified nucleobases. In certain embodiments, the modified nucleobase is 5-methylcytosine. In certain embodiments, each cytosine is a 5-methylcytosine.

Compositions and Methods for Formulating Pharmaceutical Compositions

Antisense oligonucleotides may be admixed with pharmaceutically acceptable active or inert substance for the preparation of pharmaceutical compositions or formulations. Compositions and methods for the formulation of pharmaceutical compositions are dependent upon a number of criteria, including, but not limited to, route of administration, extent of disease, or dose to be administered.

Antisense compound targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid can be utilized in pharmaceutical compositions by combining the antisense compound with a suitable pharmaceutically acceptable diluent or carrier. A pharmaceutically acceptable diluent includes phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). PBS is a diluent suitable for use in compositions to be delivered parenterally. Accordingly, in one embodiment, employed in the methods described herein is a pharmaceutical composition comprising an antisense compound targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid and a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent. In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutically acceptable diluent is PBS. In certain embodiments, the antisense compound is an antisense oligonucleotide.

Pharmaceutical compositions comprising antisense compounds encompass any pharmaceutically acceptable salts, esters, or salts of such esters, or any other oligonucleotide which, upon administration to an animal, including a human, is capable of providing (directly or indirectly) the biologically active metabolite or residue thereof. Accordingly, for example, the disclosure is also drawn to pharmaceutically acceptable salts of antisense compounds, prodrugs, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of such prodrugs, and other bioequivalents. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable salts include, but are not limited to, sodium and potassium salts.

Pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds described herein may be prepared by methods well-known in the art. For a review of pharmaceutically acceptable salts, see Stahl and Wermuth, Handbook of Pharmaceutical Salts: Properties, Selection and Use (Wiley-VCH, Weinheim, Germany, 2002). Sodium salts of antisense oligonucleotides are useful and are well accepted for therapeutic administration to humans. Accordingly, in one embodiment the compounds described herein are in the form of a sodium salt.

A prodrug can include the incorporation of additional nucleosides at one or both ends of an antisense compound which are cleaved by endogenous nucleases within the body, to form the active antisense compound.

Conjugated Antisense Compounds

Antisense compounds may be covalently linked to one or more moieties or conjugates which enhance the activity, cellular distribution or cellular uptake of the resulting antisense oligonucleotides. Typical conjugate groups include cholesterol moieties and lipid moieties. Additional conjugate groups include carbohydrates, phospholipids, biotin, phenazine, folate, phenanthridine, anthraquinone, acridine, fluoresceins, rhodamines, coumarins, and dyes.

Antisense compounds can also be modified to have one or more stabilizing groups that are generally attached to one or both termini of antisense compounds to enhance properties such as, for example, nuclease stability. Included in stabilizing groups are cap structures. These terminal modifications protect the antisense compound having terminal nucleic acid from exonuclease degradation, and can help in delivery and/or localization within a cell. The cap can be present at the 5′-terminus (5′-cap), or at the 3′-terminus (3′-cap), or can be present on both termini. Cap structures are well known in the art and include, for example, inverted deoxy abasic caps. Further 3′ and 5′-stabilizing groups that can be used to cap one or both ends of an antisense compound to impart nuclease stability include those disclosed in WO 03/004602 published on Jan. 16, 2003.

Cell Culture and Antisense Compounds Treatment

The effects of antisense compounds on the level, activity or expression of FGFR4 nucleic acids can be tested in vitro in a variety of cell types. Cell types used for such analyses are available from commercial vendors (e.g. American Type Culture Collection, Manassas, Va.; Zen-Bio, Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC; Clonetics Corporation, Walkersville, Md.) and cells are cultured according to the vendor's instructions using commercially available reagents (e.g. Invitrogen Life Technologies, Carlsbad, Calif.). Illustrative cell types include, but are not limited to, HepG2 cells and primary hepatocytes.

In Vitro Testing of Antisense Oligonucleotides

Described herein are methods for treatment of cells with antisense oligonucleotides, which can be modified appropriately for treatment with other antisense compounds.

In general, cells are treated with antisense oligonucleotides when the cells reach approximately 60-80% confluence in culture.

One reagent commonly used to introduce antisense oligonucleotides into cultured cells includes the cationic lipid transfection reagent LIPOFECTIN® (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.). Antisense oligonucleotides are mixed with LIPOFECTIN® in OPTI-MEM® 1 (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.) to achieve the desired final concentration of antisense oligonucleotide and a LIPOFECTIN® concentration that typically ranges 2 to 12 ug/mL per 100 nM antisense oligonucleotide.

Another reagent used to introduce antisense oligonucleotides into cultured cells includes LIPOFECTAMINE 2000® (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.). Antisense oligonucleotide is mixed with LIPOFECTAMINE 2000® in OPTI-MEM® 1 reduced serum medium (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.) to achieve the desired concentration of antisense oligonucleotide and a LIPOFECTAMINE® concentration that typically ranges 2 to 12 ug/mL per 100 nM antisense oligonucleotide.

Another reagent used to introduce antisense oligonucleotides into cultured cells includes Cytofectin® (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.). Antisense oligonucleotide is mixed with Cytofectin® in OPTI-MEM® 1 reduced serum medium (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.) to achieve the desired concentration of antisense oligonucleotide and a Cytofectin® concentration that typically ranges 2 to 12 ug/mL per 100 nM antisense oligonucleotide.

Another technique used to introduce antisense oligonucleotides into cultured cells includes electroporation.

Cells are treated with antisense oligonucleotides by routine methods. Cells are typically harvested 16-24 hours after antisense oligonucleotide treatment, at which time RNA or protein levels of target nucleic acids are measured by methods known in the art and described herein. In general, when treatments are performed in multiple replicates, the data are presented as the average of the replicate treatments.

The concentration of antisense oligonucleotide used varies from cell line to cell line. Methods to determine the optimal antisense oligonucleotide concentration for a particular cell line are well known in the art. Antisense oligonucleotides are typically used at concentrations ranging from 1 nM to 300 nM when transfected with LIPOFECTAMINE2000®, Lipofectin or Cytofectin. Antisense oligonucleotides are used at higher concentrations ranging from 625 to 20,000 nM when transfected using electroporation.

RNA Isolation

RNA analysis can be performed on total cellular RNA or poly(A)+mRNA. Methods of RNA isolation are well known in the art. RNA is prepared using methods well known in the art, for example, using the TRIZOL® Reagent (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.) according to the manufacturer's recommended protocols.

Analysis of Inhibition of Target Levels or Expression

Inhibition of levels or expression of a FGFR4 nucleic acid can be assayed in a variety of ways known in the art. For example, target nucleic acid levels can be quantitated by, e.g., Northern blot analysis, competitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR), or quantitative real-time PCR. RNA analysis can be performed on total cellular RNA or poly(A)+ mRNA. Methods of RNA isolation are well known in the art. Northern blot analysis is also routine in the art. Quantitative real-time PCR can be conveniently accomplished using the commercially available ABI PRISM® 7600, 7700, or 7900 Sequence Detection System, available from PE-Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif. and used according to manufacturer's instructions.

Quantitative Real-Time PCR Analysis of Target RNA Levels

Quantitation of target RNA levels may be accomplished by quantitative real-time PCR using the ABI PRISM® 7600, 7700, or 7900 Sequence Detection System (PE-Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif.) according to manufacturer's instructions. Methods of quantitative real-time PCR are well known in the art.

Prior to real-time PCR, the isolated RNA is subjected to a reverse transcriptase (RT) reaction, which produces complementary DNA (cDNA) that is then used as the substrate for the real-time PCR amplification. The RT and real-time PCR reactions are performed sequentially in the same sample well. RT and real-time PCR reagents are obtained from Invitrogen (Carlsbad, Calif.). RT, real-time-PCR reactions are carried out by methods well known to those skilled in the art.

Gene (or RNA) target quantities obtained by real time PCR are normalized using either the expression level of a gene whose expression is constant, such as cyclophilin A, or by quantifying total RNA using RIBOGREEN® (Invitrogen, Inc. Carlsbad, Calif.). Cyclophilin A expression is quantified by real time PCR, by being run simultaneously with the target, multiplexing, or separately. Total RNA is quantified using RIBOGREEN® RNA quantification reagent (Invitrogen, Inc. Eugene, Oreg.). Methods of RNA quantification by RIBOGREEN® are taught in Jones, L. J., et al, (Analytical Biochemistry, 1998, 265, 368-374). A CYTOFLUOR® 4000 instrument (PE Applied Biosystems) is used to measure RIBOGREEN® fluorescence.

Probes and primers are designed to hybridize to a FGFR4 nucleic acid. Methods for designing real-time PCR probes and primers are well known in the art, and may include the use of software such as PRIMER EXPRESS® Software (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif.).

Analysis of Protein Levels

Antisense inhibition of FGFR4 nucleic acids can be assessed by measuring FGFR4 protein levels. Protein levels of FGFR4 can be evaluated or quantitated in a variety of ways well known in the art, such as immunoprecipitation, Western blot analysis (immunoblotting), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), quantitative protein assays, protein activity assays (for example, caspase activity assays), immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry or fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Antibodies directed to a target can be identified and obtained from a variety of sources, such as the MSRS catalog of antibodies (Aerie Corporation, Birmingham, Mich.), or can be prepared via conventional monoclonal or polyclonal antibody generation methods well known in the art. Antibodies useful for the detection of human and rat FGFR4 are commercially available.

In Vivo Testing of Antisense Compounds

Antisense compounds, for example, antisense oligonucleotides, are tested in animals to assess their ability to inhibit expression of FGFR4 and produce phenotypic changes. Testing may be performed in normal animals, or in experimental disease models. For administration to animals, antisense oligonucleotides are formulated in a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent, such as phosphate-buffered saline. Administration includes parenteral routes of administration. Following a period of treatment with antisense oligonucleotides, RNA is isolated from tissue and changes in FGFR4 nucleic acid expression are measured. Changes in FGFR4 protein levels are also measured.

Certain Indications

In certain embodiments, provided herein are methods of treating an individual comprising administering one or more pharmaceutical compositions as described herein. In certain embodiments, the individual has a metabolic disease.

As shown in the examples below, compounds targeted to FGFR4, as described herein, have been shown to reduce the severity of physiological symptoms of a metabolic disease, including obesity or adiposity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance, diabetic dyslipidemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. In certain of the experiments, the compounds reduced body weight, e.g., the animals continued to experience symptoms, but the symptoms were less severe compared to untreated animals. In certain of the experiments, the compounds reduced body fat, e.g., the animals continued to experience symptoms, but the symptoms were less severe compared to untreated animals. In certain of the experiments, the compounds reduced adipose tissue, e.g., the animals continued to experience symptoms, but the symptoms were less severe compared to untreated animals. In other of the experiments, however, the compounds appear to reduce the symptoms of obesity; e.g., animals treated for a longer period of time experienced less severe symptoms than those administered the compounds for a shorter period of time. In other of the experiments, however, the compounds appear to reduce the symptoms of diabetes; e.g., animals treated for a longer period of time experienced less severe symptoms than those administered the compounds for a shorter period of time. In other of the experiments, however, the compounds appear to inhibit weight gain; e.g., animals treated for a longer period of time experienced less severe symptoms than those administered the compounds for a shorter period of time. In other of the experiments, however, the compounds appear to reduce glucose levels; e.g., animals treated for a longer period of time experienced less severe symptoms than those administered the compounds for a shorter period of time. In other of the experiments, however, the compounds appear to increase fatty acid oxidation; e.g., animals treated for a longer period of time experienced less severe symptoms than those administered the compounds for a shorter period of time. The ability of the compounds exemplified below to restore function therefore demonstrates that symptoms of the disease may be reversed by treatment with a compound as described herein.

Obesity is characterized by numerous physical and physiological symptoms. Any symptom known to one of skill in the art to be associated with obesity can be ameliorated or otherwise modulated as set forth above in the methods described above. In certain embodiments, the symptom is a physical symptom selected from the group consisting of increased adipose tissue mass or weight, increased weight gain, increased fat pad weight, imbalance with caloric intake and energy expenditure, increase in body fat, increase in body mass, having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, increase in body frame, increased sweating, sleep apnea, difficulty in sleeping, inability to cope with sudden physical activity, lethargy, back and joint problems, increase in breathlessness, increase in breast region adiposity, increase in abdomen size or fat, extreme hunger, or extreme fatigue.

In certain embodiments, the symptom is a physiological symptom selected from the group consisting of high blood pressure, hypertension, high cholesterol levels, type 2 diabetes, stroke, cardiac insufficiency, heart disease, coronary artery obstruction, breast cancer in women, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, hip and knee arthrosis, and reduced life expectancy.

In certain embodiments, the physical symptom is excess body weight. In certain embodiments, the symptom is excess fat mass. In certain embodiments, the symptom is a body mass index of 30 or higher. In certain embodiments, the symptom is breathlessness. In certain embodiments, the symptom is increased sweating. In certain embodiments, the symptom is sleep apnea. In certain embodiments, the symptom is difficulty in sleeping. In certain embodiments, the symptom is inability to cope with sudden physical activity. In certain embodiments, the symptom is lethargy. In certain embodiments, the symptom is back and joint problems.

In certain embodiments, the physiological symptom is high blood pressure. In certain embodiments, the symptom is hypertension. In certain embodiments, the symptom is high cholesterol levels. In certain embodiments, the symptom is type 2 diabetes. In certain embodiments, the symptom is stroke. In certain embodiments, the symptom is cardiac insufficiency. In certain embodiments, the symptom is heart disease. In certain embodiments, the symptom is coronary artery obstruction. In certain embodiments, the symptom is breast cancer in women. In certain embodiments, the symptom is gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. In certain embodiments, the symptom is hip and knee arthrosis. In certain embodiments, the symptom is reduced life expectancy.

Diabetes mellitus is characterized by numerous physical and physiological symptoms. Any symptom known to one of skill in the art to be associated with Type 2 diabetes can be ameliorated or otherwise modulated as set forth above in the methods described above. In certain embodiments, the symptom is a physical symptom selected from the group consisting of increased glucose levels, increased weight gain, frequent urination, unusual thirst, extreme hunger, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, frequent infections, tingling or numbness at the extremities, dry and itchy skin, weight loss, slow-healing sores, and swollen gums.

In certain embodiments, the symptom is a physiological symptom selected from the group consisting of increased insulin resistance, increased glucose levels, increased fat mass, decreased metabolic rate, decreased glucose clearance, decreased glucose tolerance, decreased insulin sensitivity, decreased hepatic insulin sensitivity, increased adipose tissue size and weight, increased body fat, and increased body weight.

In certain embodiments, the physical symptom is increased weight gain. In certain embodiments, the symptom is frequent urination. In certain embodiments, the symptom is unusual thirst. In certain embodiments, the symptom is extreme hunger. In certain embodiments, the symptom is extreme fatigue. In certain embodiments, the symptom is blurred vision. In certain embodiments, the symptom is frequent infections. In certain embodiments, the symptom is tingling or numbness at the extremities. In certain embodiments, the symptom is dry and itchy skin. In certain embodiments, the symptom is weight loss. In certain embodiments, the symptom is slow-healing sores. In certain embodiments, the symptom is swollen gums. In certain embodiments, the symptom is increased insulin resistance. In certain embodiments, the symptom is increased fat mass. In certain embodiments, the symptom is decreased metabolic rate. In certain embodiments, the symptom is decreased glucose clearance. In certain embodiments, the symptom is decreased glucose tolerance. In certain embodiments, the symptom is decreased insulin sensitivity. In certain embodiments, the symptom is decreased hepatic insulin sensitivity. In certain embodiments, the symptom is increased adipose tissue size and weight. In certain embodiments, the symptom is increased body fat. In certain embodiments, the symptom is increased body weight.

In certain embodiments, provided are methods of treating an individual comprising administering one or more pharmaceutical compositions as described herein. In certain embodiments, the individual has metabolic related disease.

In certain embodiments, administration of an antisense compound targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid results in reduction of FGFR4 expression by at least about 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95 or 99%, or a range defined by any two of these values.

In certain embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising an antisense compound targeted to FGFR4 are used for the preparation of a medicament for treating a patient suffering or susceptible to a metabolic disease.

In certain embodiments, the methods described herein include administering a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide having a contiguous nucleobases portion as described herein of a sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 16.

In certain embodiments, the methods described herein include administering a compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide having a contiguous nucleobases portion as described herein of a sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 45.

Administration

In certain embodiments, the compounds and compositions as described herein may be administered in a number of ways depending upon whether local or systemic treatment is desired and upon the area to be treated. Administration may be topical, pulmonary, e.g., by inhalation or insufflation of powders or aerosols, including by nebulizer; intratracheal, intranasal, epidermal and transdermal, oral or parenteral. The compounds and compositions as described herein can be administered directly to a tissue or organ.

In certain embodiments, the compounds and compositions as described herein are administered parenterally. “Parenteral administration” means administration through injection or infusion. Parenteral administration includes subcutaneous administration, intravenous administration, intramuscular administration, intraarterial administration, intraperitoneal administration, or intracranial administration, e.g. intracerebral administration, intrathecal administration, intraventricular administration, ventricular administration, intracerebroventricular administration, cerebral intraventricular administration or cerebral ventricular administration. Administration can be continuous, or chronic, or short or intermittent.

In certain embodiments, parenteral administration is by injection. The injection can be delivered with a syringe or a pump. In certain embodiments, the injection is a bolus injection. In certain embodiments, the injection is administered directly to a tissue or organ.

In certain embodiments, the compounds and compositions as described herein are administered parenterally.

In certain embodiments, parenteral administration is subcutaneous.

In further embodiments, the formulation for administration is the compounds described herein and saline.

In certain embodiments, an antisense oligonucleotide is delivered by injection or infusion once every month, every two months, every 90 days, every 3 months, every 6 months, twice a year or once a year.

Certain Combination Therapies

In certain embodiments, one or more pharmaceutical compositions described herein are co-administered with one or more other pharmaceutical agents. In certain embodiments, such one or more other pharmaceutical agents are designed to treat the same disease, disorder, or condition as the one or more pharmaceutical compositions described herein. In certain embodiments, such one or more other pharmaceutical agents are designed to treat a different disease, disorder, or condition as the one or more pharmaceutical compositions described herein. In certain embodiments, such one or more other pharmaceutical agents are designed to treat an undesired side effect of one or more pharmaceutical compositions as described herein. In certain embodiments, one or more pharmaceutical compositions are co-administered with another pharmaceutical agent to treat an undesired effect of that other pharmaceutical agent. In certain embodiments, one or more pharmaceutical compositions are co-administered with another pharmaceutical agent to produce a combinational effect. In certain embodiments, one or more pharmaceutical compositions are co-administered with another pharmaceutical agent to produce a synergistic effect.

In certain embodiments, a first agent and one or more second agents are administered at the same time. In certain embodiments, the first agent and one or more second agents are administered at different times. In certain embodiments, the first agent and one or more second agents are prepared together in a single pharmaceutical formulation. In certain embodiments, the first agent and one or more second agents are prepared separately.

In certain embodiments, the second compound is administered prior to administration of a pharmaceutical composition described herein. In certain embodiments, the second compound is administered following administration of a pharmaceutical composition described herein. In certain embodiments, the second compound is administered at the same time as a pharmaceutical composition described herein. In certain embodiments, the dose of a co-administered second compound is the same as the dose that would be administered if the second compound was administered alone. In certain embodiments, the dose of a co-administered second compound is lower than the dose that would be administered if the second compound was administered alone. In certain embodiments, the dose of a co-administered second compound is greater than the dose that would be administered if the second compound was administered alone.

In certain embodiments, the co-administration of a second compound enhances the effect of a first compound, such that co-administration of the compounds results in an effect that is greater than the effect of administering the first compound alone. In certain embodiments, the co-administration results in effects that are additive of the effects of the compounds when administered alone. In certain embodiments, the co-administration results in effects that are supra-additive of the effects of the compounds when administered alone. In certain embodiments, the first compound is an antisense compound. In certain embodiments, the second compound is an antisense compound.

In certain embodiments the FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotide is delivered concomitant with delivery of the second agent. Alternatively, delivery can be in the same formulation or can be administered separately. In certain embodiments, FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotide is administered prior to the treatment with the second agents. In a certain embodiment, the FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotide is administered after treatment with an obesity inducing drug or agent is ceased.

In certain embodiments, second agents include, but are not limited to, a glucose-lowering agent. The glucose lowering agent can include, but is not limited to, a therapeutic lifestyle change, PPAR agonist, a dipeptidyl peptidase (IV) inhibitor, a GLP-1 analog, insulin or an insulin analog, an insulin secretagogue, a SGLT2 inhibitor, a human amylin analog, a biguanide, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, or a combination thereof. The glucose-lowering agent can include, but is not limited to metformin, sulfonylurea, rosiglitazone, meglitinide, thiazolidinedione, alpha-glucosidase inhibitor or a combination thereof. The sulfonylurea can be acetohexamide, chlorpropamide, tolbutamide, tolazamide, glimepiride, a glipizide, a glyburide, or a gliclazide. The meglitinide can be nateglinide or repaglinide. The thiazolidinedione can be pioglitazone or rosiglitazone. The alpha-glucosidase can be acarbose or miglitol.

In some embodiments, the glucose-lowering therapeutic is a GLP-1 analog. In some embodiments, the GLP-1 analog is exendin-4 or liraglutide.

In other embodiments, the glucose-lowering therapeutic is a sulfonylurea. In some embodiments, the sulfonylurea is acetohexamide, chlorpropamide, tolbutamide, tolazamide, glimepiride, a glipizide, a glyburide, or a gliclazide.

In some embodiments, the glucose-lowering drug is a biguanide. In some embodiments, the biguanide is metformin, and in some embodiments, blood glucose levels are decreased without increased lactic acidosis as compared to the lactic acidosis observed after treatment with metformin alone.

In some embodiments, the glucose-lowering drug is a meglitinide. In some embodiments, the meglitinide is nateglinide or repaglinide.

In some embodiments, the glucose-lowering drug is a thiazolidinedione. In some embodiments, the thiazolidinedione is pioglitazone, rosiglitazone, or troglitazone. In some embodiments, blood glucose levels are decreased without greater weight gain than observed with rosiglitazone treatment alone.

In some embodiments, the glucose-lowering drug is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. In some embodiments, the alpha-glucosidase inhibitor is acarbose or miglitol.

In a certain embodiment, a co-administered glucose-lowering agent is ISIS 113715.

In a certain embodiment, glucose-lowering therapy is therapeutic lifestyle change.

In certain embodiments, second agents include, but are not limited to, lipid-lowering agents. The lipid-lowering agent can include, but is not limited to atorvastatin, simvastatin, rosuvastatin, and ezetimibe. In certain such embodiments, the lipid-lowering agent is administered prior to administration of a pharmaceutical composition described herein. In certain such embodiments, the lipid-lowering agent is administered following administration of a pharmaceutical composition described herein. In certain such embodiments the lipid-lowering agent is administered at the same time as a pharmaceutical composition described herein. In certain such embodiments the dose of a co-administered lipid-lowering agent is the same as the dose that would be administered if the lipid-lowering agent was administered alone. In certain such embodiments the dose of a co-administered lipid-lowering agent is lower than the dose that would be administered if the lipid-lowering agent was administered alone. In certain such embodiments the dose of a co-administered lipid-lowering agent is greater than the dose that would be administered if the lipid-lowering agent was administered alone.

In certain embodiments, a co-administered lipid-lowering agent is a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. In certain such embodiments the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor is a statin. In certain such embodiments the statin is selected from atorvastatin, simvastatin, pravastatin, fluvastatin, and rosuvastatin.

In certain embodiments, a co-administered lipid-lowering agent is a cholesterol absorption inhibitor. In certain such embodiments, cholesterol absorption inhibitor is ezetimibe.

In certain embodiments, a co-administered lipid-lowering agent is a co-formulated HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor and cholesterol absorption inhibitor. In certain such embodiments the co-formulated lipid-lowering agent is ezetimibe/simvastatin.

In certain embodiments, a co-administered lipid-lowering agent is a microsomal triglyceride transfer protein inhibitor (MTP inhibitor).

In certain embodiments, a co-administered lipid-lowering agent is an oligonucleotide targeted to ApoB.

In certain embodiments, second agents include, but are not limited to an anti-obesity drug or agent. Such anti-obesity agents include but are not limited to Orlistat, Sibutramine, or Rimonabant, and may be administered as described above as adipose or body weight lowering agents. In certain embodiments, the antisense compound may be co-administered with appetite suppressants. Such appetite suppressants include but are not limited to diethylpropion tenuate, mazindol, orlistat, phendimetrazine, phentermine, and sibutramine and may be administered as described herein. In certain embodiment, the anti-obesity agents are CNS based such as, but not limited to, sibutramine or GLP-1 based such as, but not limited to, liraglutide.

In certain embodiments, second agents include, but are not limited to an antipsychotic drug or agent. Such antipsychotic agents therapeutics may be administered as described above to reduce metabolic abnormalities associated with treatment with antipsychotic agents. In a particular embodiment administering of the FGFR4 antisense compound results in increased metabolic rate or decreasing adiposity or decreasing body weight or all three without affecting the CNS effects of the psychotherapeutic agent

Due to the ability of FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotides to increase metabolic rate and insulin sensitivity and reduce adiposity and weight gain, these compounds can be administered to reduce metabolic abnormalities associated with treatment with antipsychotic agents. In certain embodiments the FGFR4 antisense oligonucleotide is delivered in a method of reducing metabolic abnormalities associated with the therapeutic use of psychotherapeutic agents. Such weight inducing antipsychotic agents include, but are not limited to clozapine, olanzapine, aripiprazole, risperidone and ziprasidone.

Further provided is a method of administering an antisense compound targeted to a FGFR4 nucleic acid via injection and further including administering a topical steroid at the injection site.

Further examples of pharmaceutical agents that may be co-administered with a pharmaceutical composition of the present invention include, but are not limited to, corticosteroids, including but not limited to prednisone; immunoglobulins, including, but not limited to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg); analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen); anti-inflammatory agents, including, but not limited to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, COX-1 inhibitors, and COX-2, inhibitors); salicylates; antibiotics; antivirals; antifungal agents; antidiabetic agents (e.g., biguanides, glucosidase inhibitors, insulins, sulfonylureas, and thiazolidenediones); adrenergic modifiers; diuretics; hormones (e.g., anabolic steroids, androgen, estrogen, calcitonin, progestin, somatostan, and thyroid hormones); immunomodulators; muscle relaxants; antihistamines; osteoporosis agents (e.g., biphosphonates, calcitonin, and estrogens); prostaglandins, antineoplastic agents; psychotherapeutic agents; sedatives; poison oak or poison sumac products; antibodies; and vaccines.

In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention may be administered in conjunction with a lipid-lowering therapy. In certain such embodiments, a lipid-lowering therapy is therapeutic lifestyle change. In certain such embodiments, a lipid-lowering therapy is LDL apheresis.

Formulations

The compounds provided herein may also be admixed, conjugated or otherwise associated with other molecules, molecule structures or mixtures of compounds, as for example, liposomes, receptor-targeted molecules, or other formulations, for assisting in uptake, distribution and/or absorption. Representative United States patents that teach the preparation of such uptake, distribution and/or absorption-assisting formulations include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,108,921; 5,354,844; 5,416,016; 5,459,127; 5,521,291; 5,543,158; 5,547,932; 5,583,020; 5,591,721; 4,426,330; 4,534,899; 5,013,556; 5,108,921; 5,213,804; 5,227,170; 5,264,221; 5,356,633; 5,395,619; 5,416,016; 5,417,978; 5,462,854; 5,469,854; 5,512,295; 5,527,528; 5,534,259; 5,543,152; 5,556,948; 5,580,575; and 5,595,756, each of which is herein incorporated by reference.

The antisense compounds provided herein encompass any pharmaceutically acceptable salts, esters, or salts of such esters, or any other compound which, upon administration to an animal, including a human, is capable of providing (directly or indirectly) the biologically active metabolite or residue thereof.

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable salts” refers to physiologically and pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds provided herein: i.e., salts that retain the desired biological activity of the parent compound and do not impart undesired toxicological effects thereto. The term “pharmaceutically acceptable salt” includes a salt prepared from pharmaceutically acceptable non-toxic acids or bases, including inorganic or organic acids and bases. For oligonucleotides, preferred examples of pharmaceutically acceptable salts and their uses are further described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,860, which is incorporated herein in its entirety. Sodium salts have been shown to be suitable forms of oligonucleotide drugs.

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable derivative” encompasses, but is not limited to, pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates, hydrates, esters, prodrugs, polymorphs, isomers, isotopically labeled variants of the compounds described herein.

The present invention also includes pharmaceutical compositions and formulations which include the antisense compounds provided herein. The pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be administered in a number of ways depending upon whether local or systemic treatment is desired and upon the area to be treated. Administration may be parenteral. Parenteral administration includes intravenous, intraarterial, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal or intramuscular injection or infusion; or intracranial, e.g., intracerebral administration, intrathecal administration, intraventricular administration, ventricular administration, intracerebroventricular administration, cerebral intraventricular administration or cerebral ventricular administration.

Parenteral administration, is preferred to target FGFR4 expression in the liver and plasma. Oligonucleotides with at least one 2′-O-methoxyethyl modification are believed to be particularly useful for oral administration. Pharmaceutical compositions and formulations for topical administration may include transdermal patches, ointments, lotions, creams, gels, drops, suppositories, sprays, liquids and powders. Conventional pharmaceutical carriers, aqueous, powder or oily bases, thickeners and the like may be necessary or desirable. Coated condoms, gloves and the like may also be useful.

The pharmaceutical formulations described herein, which may conveniently be presented in unit dosage form, may be prepared according to conventional techniques well known in the pharmaceutical industry. Such techniques include the step of bringing into association the active ingredients with the pharmaceutical carrier(s) or excipient(s). In general, the formulations are prepared by uniformly and intimately bringing into association the active ingredients with liquid carriers or finely divided solid carriers or both, and then, if necessary, shaping the product.

The compositions described herein may be formulated into any of many possible dosage forms such as, but not limited to, tablets, capsules, gel capsules, liquid syrups, soft gels, suppositories, and enemas. The compositions described herein may also be formulated as suspensions in aqueous, non-aqueous or mixed media. Aqueous suspensions may further contain substances which increase the viscosity of the suspension including, for example, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, sorbitol and/or dextran. The suspension may also contain stabilizers.

Pharmaceutical compositions described herein include, but are not limited to, solutions, emulsions, foams and liposome-containing formulations. The pharmaceutical compositions and formulations described herein may comprise one or more penetration enhancers, carriers, excipients or other active or inactive ingredients.

Emulsions are typically heterogenous systems of one liquid dispersed in another in the form of droplets usually exceeding 0.1 μm in diameter. Emulsions may contain additional components in addition to the dispersed phases, and the active drug which may be present as a solution in the aqueous phase, oily phase or itself as a separate phase. Microemulsions are included as an embodiment described herein. Emulsions and their uses are well known in the art and are further described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,860, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

Formulations include liposomal formulations. As used in the present invention, the term “liposome” means a vesicle composed of amphiphilic lipids arranged in a spherical bilayer or bilayers. Liposomes are unilamellar or multilamellar vesicles which have a membrane formed from a lipophilic material and an aqueous interior that contains the composition to be delivered. Cationic liposomes are positively charged liposomes which are believed to interact with negatively charged DNA molecules to form a stable complex. Liposomes that are pH-sensitive or negatively-charged are believed to entrap DNA rather than complex with it. Both cationic and noncationic liposomes have been used to deliver DNA to cells.

Liposomes also include “sterically stabilized” liposomes, a term which, as used herein, refers to liposomes comprising one or more specialized lipids that, when incorporated into liposomes, result in enhanced circulation lifetimes relative to liposomes lacking such specialized lipids. Liposomes and their uses are further described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,860, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

In another embodiment, formulations include saline formulations. In certain embodiments, a formulation consists of the compounds described herein and saline. In certain embodiments, a formulation consists essentially of the compounds described herein and saline. In certain embodiments, the saline is pharmaceutically acceptable grade saline. In certain embodiments, the saline is buffered saline. In certain embodiments, the saline is phosphate buffered saline (PBS).

In certain embodiments, a formulation excludes liposomes. In certain embodiments, the formulation excludes sterically stabilized liposomes. In certain embodiments, a formulation excludes phospholipids. In certain embodiments, the formulation consists essentially of the compounds described herein and saline and excludes liposomes.

The pharmaceutical formulations and compositions may also include surfactants. Surfactants and their uses are further described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,860, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

In one embodiment, the present invention employs various penetration enhancers to affect the efficient delivery of nucleic acids, particularly oligonucleotides. Penetration enhancers and their uses are further described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,860, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

One of skill in the art will recognize that formulations are routinely designed according to their intended use, i.e. route of administration.

Formulations for topical administration include those in which the oligonucleotides provided herein are in admixture with a topical delivery agent such as lipids, liposomes, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, steroids, chelating agents and surfactants. Preferred lipids and liposomes include neutral (e.g. dioleoylphosphatidyl DOPE ethanolamine, dimyristoylphosphatidyl choline DMPC, distearolyphosphatidyl choline) negative (e.g. dimyristoylphosphatidyl glycerol DMPG) and cationic (e.g. dioleoyltetramethylaminopropyl DOTAP and dioleoylphosphatidyl ethanolamine DOTMA).

Compositions and formulations for parenteral administration, including intravenous, intraarterial, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, intramuscular injection or infusion, or intracranial may include sterile aqueous solutions which may also contain buffers, diluents and other suitable additives such as, but not limited to, penetration enhancers, carrier compounds and other pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or excipients.

Certain embodiments provided herein provide pharmaceutical compositions containing one or more oligomeric compounds and one or more other chemotherapeutic agents which function by a non-antisense mechanism. Examples of such chemotherapeutic agents include but are not limited to cancer chemotherapeutic drugs such as daunorubicin, daunomycin, dactinomycin, doxorubicin, epirubicin, idarubicin, esorubicin, bleomycin, mafosfamide, ifosfamide, cytosine arabinoside, bis-chloroethylnitrosurea, busulfan, mitomycin C, actinomycin D, mithramycin, prednisone, hydroxyprogesterone, testosterone, tamoxifen, dacarbazine, procarbazine, hexamethylmelamine, pentamethylmelamine, mitoxantrone, amsacrine, chlorambucil, methylcyclohexylnitrosurea, nitrogen mustards, melphalan, cyclophosphamide, 6-mercaptopurine, 6-thioguanine, cytarabine, 5-azacytidine, hydroxyurea, deoxycoformycin, 4-hydroxyperoxycyclophosphoramide, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), 5-fluorodeoxyuridine (5-FUdR), methotrexate (MTX), colchicine, taxol, vincristine, vinblastine, etoposide (VP-16), trimetrexate, irinotecan, topotecan, gemcitabine, teniposide, cisplatin and diethylstilbestrol (DES). When used with the compounds provided herein, such chemotherapeutic agents may be used individually (e.g., 5-FU and oligonucleotide), sequentially (e.g., 5-FU and oligonucleotide for a period of time followed by MTX and oligonucleotide), or in combination with one or more other such chemotherapeutic agents (e.g., 5-FU, MTX and oligonucleotide, or 5-FU, radiotherapy and oligonucleotide). Anti-inflammatory drugs, including but not limited to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids, and antiviral drugs, including but not limited to ribivirin, vidarabine, acyclovir and ganciclovir, may also be combined in compositions provided herein. Combinations of antisense compounds and other non-antisense drugs are also within the scope of this invention. Two or more combined compounds may be used together or sequentially.

In another related embodiment, compositions provided herein may contain one or more antisense compounds, particularly oligonucleotides, targeted to a first nucleic acid and one or more additional antisense compounds targeted to a second nucleic acid target. Alternatively, compositions provided herein may contain two or more antisense compounds targeted to different regions of the same nucleic acid target. Numerous examples of antisense compounds are known in the art. Two or more combined compounds may be used together or sequentially.

Dosing

Dosing is dependent on severity and responsiveness of the disease state to be treated, with the course of treatment lasting from several days to several months, or until a cure is effected or a diminution of the disease state is achieved. Optimal dosing schedules can be calculated from measurements of drug accumulation in the body of the patient. Optimum dosages may vary depending on the relative potency of individual oligonucleotides, and can generally be estimated based on EC₅₀s found to be effective in in vitro and in vivo animal models. In general, dosage is from 0.01 μg to 100 g per kg of body weight, and may be given once or more daily, weekly, monthly or yearly, or at desired intervals. Following successful treatment, it may be desirable to have the patient undergo maintenance therapy to prevent the recurrence of the disease state, wherein the oligonucleotide is administered in maintenance doses, ranging from 0.01 μg to 100 g per kg of body weight, once or more daily.

While the present invention has been described with specificity in accordance with certain of its preferred embodiments, the following examples serve only to illustrate the invention and are not intended to limit the same. Each of the references, GENBANK accession numbers, and the like recited in the present application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Certain Compounds

About one thousand four hundred and fifty four newly designed and previously disclosed antisense compounds of various lengths, motifs and backbone composition were tested for their effect on human FGFR4 mRNA in vitro in several cell types. The new compounds were compared with nine previously designed compounds, including ISIS 299005, ISIS 299010, ISIS 299018, ISIS 299022, ISIS 299024, ISIS 299025, ISIS 299028, ISIS 299029, and ISIS 299030 which have previously been determined to be some of the most potent antisense compounds in vitro (see e.g., U.S. Patent Publication No. US2010/0292140). Of the one thousand four hundred and fifty four newly designed and the nine previously designed antisense compounds, fifty three compounds were selected for further study based on in vitro potency. The selected compounds were tested for dose dependent inhibition in HepG2 (Examples 8 and 9).

Certain oligonucleotides were then tested for tolerability in a CD1 mouse model, as well as a Sprague-Dawley rat model. The oligonucleotides tested for tolerability include oligonucleotides, ISIS 299005 (SEQ ID NO: 7), ISIS 463588 (SEQ ID NO: 16), ISIS 463589 (SEQ ID NO: 17), ISIS 463628 (SEQ ID NO: 28), ISIS 463690 (SEQ ID NO: 45), ISIS 463691 (SEQ ID NO: 46), ISIS 463835 (SEQ ID NO: 70), ISIS 463837 (SEQ ID NO: 72), ISIS 464222 (SEQ ID NO: 135), ISIS 464225 (SEQ ID NO: 138), ISIS 464228 (SEQ ID NO: 141), ISIS 464286 (SEQ ID NO: 154), ISIS 464308 (SEQ ID NO: 163), ISIS 464449 (SEQ ID NO: 174), ISIS 464587 (SEQ ID NO: 186), ISIS 464588 (SEQ ID NO: 187), ISIS 464589 (SEQ ID NO: 188), ISIS 464718 (SEQ ID NO: 221), ISIS 479533 (SEQ ID NO: 241), ISIS 479551 (SEQ ID NO: 259), ISIS 479691 (SEQ ID NO: 299), ISIS 479692 (SEQ ID NO: 300), ISIS 479698 (SEQ ID NO: 305), ISIS 479699 (SEQ ID NO: 306), ISIS 479703 (SEQ ID NO: 307), ISIS 479704 (SEQ ID NO: 308), ISIS 479706 (SEQ ID NO: 310), and ISIS 479736 (SEQ ID NO: 317). By virtue of their complementary sequence, the compounds are complementary to the regions 192-211, 191-210, 193-212, 291-310, 369-388, 370-389, 788-807, 790-809, 2951-2970, 2954-2973, and 2981-3000 of SEQ ID NO: 1; 11621-11640, 11624-11643, 11651-11670, 1463-1482, 3325-3344, 7802-7821, 2110-2129, 2112-2131, 2114-2133, 3575-3594, 2111-2130, 3570-3589, 11623-11639, 11624-11640, 11652-11668, 11653-11669, 2113-2129, 2114-2130, 2116-2132, and 3571-3587 of SEQ ID NO: 2; and 103-122, 1569-1588, 5122-5138, 5123-5139, 5151-5167, 5152-5168, 105-121, 106-122, 108-124, and 1570-1586 of SEQ ID NO: 3.

In the in vivo models, the liver function markers, such as alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase and bilirubin, and kidney function markers, such as BUN and creatinine were measured. (Example 11).

Eight oligonucleotides having a nucleobase sequence of a sequence recited in SEQ ID NO: 7 (ISIS 299005), 16 (ISIS 463588), 17 (ISIS 463589), 45 (ISIS 463690), 46 (ISIS 463691), 70 (ISIS 463835), 72 (ISIS 463837) and 138 (ISIS 464225) were tested. By virtue of their complementary sequence, the compounds are complementary to the regions 192-211, 191-210, 193-212, 369-388, 370-389, 788-807, 790-809, and 2954-2973 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In certain embodiments, the compounds targeting the listed regions, as further described herein, comprise a modified oligonucleotide having some nucleobase portion of the sequence recited in the SEQ ID NOs, as further described herein, In certain embodiments, the compounds targeting the listed regions or having a nucleobase portion of a sequence recited in the listed SEQ ID NOs can be of various length, as further described herein, and can have one of various motifs, as further described herein. In certain embodiments, a compound targeting a region or having a nucleobase portion of a sequence recited in the listed SEQ ID NOs has the specific length and motif, as indicated by the ISIS NOs: 299005, 463588, 463589, 463690, 463691, 463835, 463837, and 464225.

These eight compounds, ISIS 299005 (SEQ ID NO: 7), ISIS 463588 (SEQ ID NO: 16), ISIS 463589 (SEQ ID NO: 17), ISIS 463690 (SEQ ID NO: 45), ISIS 463691 (SEQ ID NO: 46), ISIS 463835 (SEQ ID NO: 70), ISIS 463837 (SEQ ID NO: 72), and ISIS 464225 (SEQ ID NO: 138), were assayed for long-term effects on tolerability in a CD/1GS rat model for 13 weeks (Example 12). Body weights and organ weights, the liver function markers, such as alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase and bilirubin, and kidney function markers, such as BUN and creatinine were measured. The eight compounds were also tested for their viscosity. (Example 14)

ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, and ISIS 463690 which demonstrated very good tolerability in all three in vivo models, were tested for their half-life in CD1 mouse liver (Example 13).

These eight compounds, ISIS 299005 (SEQ ID NO: 7), ISIS 463588 (SEQ ID NO: 16), ISIS 463589 (SEQ ID NO: 17), ISIS 463690 (SEQ ID NO: 45), ISIS 463691 (SEQ ID NO: 46), ISIS 463835 (SEQ ID NO: 70), ISIS 463837 (SEQ ID NO: 72), and ISIS 464225 (SEQ ID NO: 138), were tested for efficacy, pharmacokinetic profile and tolerability in cynomolgus monkeys (Example 15). The inhibition studies in these monkeys indicated that treatment with some of these compounds caused reduction of FGFR4 mRNA in the liver tissues. Specifically, treatment with ISIS 463588 caused significantly greater reduction of FGFR4 mRNA in liver and kidney tissues, respectively compared to treatment with the previously disclosed compound, ISIS 299005. It was noted that ISIS 463588 caused the highest reduction of FGFR4 mRNA compared to the PBS control, irrespective of the primer probe set used. Hence, in terms of potency, treatment with ISIS 463588 was the most effective in the monkey study. Treatment with ISIS 463690 also caused a greater reduction of FGFR4 mRNA in liver and kidney tissues, respectively compared to treatment with the previously disclosed compound, ISIS 299005.

FGF19 has been known to reduce adiposity and improve insulin sensitivity in transgenic mice (Fu, L. et al., Endocrinology. 145: 2594-2603, 2004). FGF19 is also characterized as a high affinity ligand for FGFR4 (Xie, M.-H. et al., Cytokine. 11: 729-735, 1999). However, treating mice with FGF19 protein induces hepatocyte proliferation consistent with the increased hepatocyte proliferation and liver tumor formation observed in FGF19 transgenic mice (Wu, X. et al., JBC 285(8): 5165-5170, 2010). Leptin is a hormone which has been found to be present at very high levels in obese individuals compared to normal-weight individuals (Considine, R. V. et al., N. Engl. J. Med. 334: 292-295, 1996). Evaluation of FGF19 mRNA and plasma levels demonstrated the significant increase in FGF19 mRNA and protein levels in all the treatment groups. Specifically, monkeys treated with ISIS 463588 had the most significant increase in FGF19 levels. Evaluation of leptin plasma levels demonstrated a significant decrease in monkeys treated with ISIS 463588 or ISIS 463690. Tolerability studies in cynomolgus monkeys (Example 15) were conducted after treatment with the ISIS oligonucleotides. This included measurement plasma levels of liver metabolites, kidney metabolites, pro-inflammatory factors, such as C-reactive protein, complement C3 and cytokines. The results indicated that treatment with the ISIS oligonucleotides in Example 15 remained within acceptable levels for antisense oligonucleotides and were therefore tolerable to the monkeys. In particular, treatment with ISIS 463588 was very well-tolerated in this model.

Pharmacokinetic studies of the three most well-tolerated ISIS oligonucleotides, ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, and ISIS 463690, was also performed in the monkeys and indicated that the pharmacokinetics of all three were optimal.

Hence, the in vivo studies, particularly in the cynomolgus monkeys, indicate that ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, and ISIS 463690, were a more potent oligonucleotide compared to ISIS 299005 and was also considerably more tolerable.

Accordingly, provided herein are antisense compounds with any one or more of the improved characteristics. In a certain embodiments, provided herein are compounds comprising a modified oligonucleotide as further described herein targeted to or specifically hybridizable with the region of nucleotides of SEQ ID NO: 1.

In certain embodiments, the compounds as described herein are efficacious by virtue of having at least one of an in vitro IC₅₀ of less than 1.5 μM, less than 1.4 μM, less than 1.3 μM, less than 1.2 μM, less than 1.1 μM, less than 1.0 μM, less than 0.9 μM, less than 0.8 μM, less than 0.7 μM, less than 0.6 μM when delivered to a HepG2 cell line using electroporation as described in Example 8. In certain embodiments, the compounds as described herein are efficacious in vivo, as demonstrated by decreasing the levels of FGFR4 mRNA by 60%, 65%, 70%, 75% or 80%. In further embodiments, the compounds are efficacious in vivo, as demonstrated by increasing the levels of FGF15 and FGF19 mRNA and protein by 100%, 200%, 300%, 400%, 500%, 600%, 700%, 800%, 900%, or 1000%. In other embodiments, the compounds are efficacious in vivo, as demonstrated by decreasing plasma levels of leptin by 30%, 35%, or 40%.

In certain embodiments, the compounds as described herein are highly tolerable, as demonstrated by having at least one of an increase an ALT or AST value of no more than 4 fold, 3 fold, or 2 fold over saline treated animals; or an increase in liver, spleen or kidney weight of no more than 30%, 20%, 15%, 12%, 10%, 5% or 2%.

EXAMPLES

Non-Limiting Disclosure and Incorporation by Reference

While certain compounds, compositions and methods described herein have been described with specificity in accordance with certain embodiments, the following examples serve only to illustrate the compounds described herein and are not intended to limit the same. Each of the references recited in the present application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Example 1

Antisense Inhibition of Human Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR4) in HepG2 Cells

Antisense oligonucleotides were designed targeting a FGFR4 nucleic acid and were tested for their effects on FGFR4 mRNA in vitro. Cultured HepG2 cells at a density of 20,000 cells per well were transfected using electroporation with 4,500 nM antisense oligonucleotide. After a treatment period of approximately 24 hours, RNA was isolated from the cells and FGFR4 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Human primer probe set RTS3232 (forward sequence TCATCAACGGCAGCAGCTT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 327; reverse sequence AGCTATTGATGTCTGCAGTCTTTAGG, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 328; probe sequence AGCCGACGGTTTCCCCTATGTGCA, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 329) was used to measure mRNA levels. FGFR4 mRNA levels were adjusted according to total RNA content, as measured by RIBOGREEN®. Results are presented as percent inhibition of FGFR4, relative to untreated control cells. A total of 458 oligonucleotides were tested. Only those oligonucleotides demonstrating greater than 65% inhibition in vitro or which were used in subsequent assays are shown in Table 1.

Some of the antisense oligonucleotides were also tested with an additional primer probe set RTS1325 (forward sequence TTGCTGTGCCGTGTCCAA, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 330; reverse sequence TCCAAGAAGCCGAGCAGAAC, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 331; probe sequence AGCTGCCGTGCCTGTGTCCTGAT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 332). ‘n/a.’ indicates that particular antisense oligonucleotide was not tested with RTS1325.

The newly designed chimeric antisense oligonucleotides in Table 1 were designed as 5-10-5 MOE gapmers. The gapmers are 20 nucleosides in length, wherein the central gap segment comprises of ten 2′-deoxynucleosides and is flanked by wing segments on the 5′ and 3′ directions comprising five nucleosides each. Each nucleotide in the 5′ wing segment and each nucleotide in the 3′ wing segment has a 2′-MOE modification. The internucleoside linkages throughout each gapmer are phosphorothioate (P═S) linkages. All cytosine residues throughout each gapmer are 5-methylcytosines. “Start site” indicates the 5′-most nucleoside to which the gapmer is targeted in the human gene sequence. “Stop site” indicates the 3′-most nucleoside to which the gapmer is targeted in the human gene sequence. Each gapmer listed in Table 1 is targeted to the human FGFR4 mRNA, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 1 (GENBANK Accession No. NM_—002011.3).

TABLE 1
Inhibition of human FGFR4 mRNA levels by chimeric antisense
oligonucleotides targeted to SEQ ID NO: 1
				%	%	SEQ
Start	Stop		ISIS	inhibition	inhibition	ID
Site	Site	Sequence	No	(RTS3232)	(RTS1325)	NO
192	211	GGCACACTCAGCAGGACCCC	299005	85	n/a	7
304	323	AGGCTGCCCAAGGGCTACTG	299010	65	n/a	8
597	616	GTCCAGTAGGGTGCTTGCTG	299018	68	n/a	9
727	746	CCCATGAAAGGCCTGTCCAT	299022	68	n/a	10
757	776	GCGCAGCCGAATGCCTCCAA	299024	68	65	11
785	804	TCTCCATCACGAGACTCCAG	299025	65	59	12
969	988	TACACCTTGCACAGCAGCTC	299028	68	66	13
1027	1046	GCTGCTGCCGTTGATGACGA	299029	91	61	14
1032	1051	CCGAAGCTGCTGCCGTTGAT	299030	72	19	15
191	210	GCACACTCAGCAGGACCCCC	463588	87	n/a	16
193	212	AGGCACACTCAGCAGGACCC	463589	83	n/a	17
194	213	CAGGCACACTCAGCAGGACC	463590	72	n/a	18
196	215	CCCAGGCACACTCAGCAGGA	463592	73	n/a	19
197	216	GCCCAGGCACACTCAGCAGG	463593	71	n/a	20
198	217	GGCCCAGGCACACTCAGCAG	463594	69	n/a	21
200	219	GAGGCCCAGGCACACTCAGC	463596	78	n/a	22
202	221	TGGAGGCCCAGGCACACTCA	463598	72	n/a	23
203	222	CTGGAGGCCCAGGCACACTC	463599	78	n/a	24
205	224	GACTGGAGGCCCAGGCACAC	463601	69	n/a	25
287	306	CTGTCAGCTCCTGCTCTTGC	463625	65	n/a	26
290	309	CTACTGTCAGCTCCTGCTCT	463627	74	n/a	27
291	310	GCTACTGTCAGCTCCTGCTC	463628	82	n/a	28
292	311	GGCTACTGTCAGCTCCTGCT	463629	93	n/a	29
293	312	GGGCTACTGTCAGCTCCTGC	463630	75	n/a	30
299	318	GCCCAAGGGCTACTGTCAGC	463636	69	n/a	31
309	328	CGCACAGGCTGCCCAAGGGC	463645	75	n/a	32
332	351	GCTCAGCCCGCCCACAGCAC	463648	81	n/a	33
338	357	CACCACGCTCAGCCCGCCCA	463654	77	n/a	34
339	358	CCACCACGCTCAGCCCGCCC	463655	73	n/a	35
340	359	GCCACCACGCTCAGCCCGCC	463656	69	n/a	36
341	360	GGCCACCACGCTCAGCCCGC	463657	65	n/a	37
347	366	ACCAGTGGCCACCACGCTCA	463670	73	n/a	38
349	368	GTACCAGTGGCCACCACGCT	463672	81	n/a	39
350	369	TGTACCAGTGGCCACCACGC	463673	69	n/a	40
355	374	CTCCTTGTACCAGTGGCCAC	463677	67	n/a	41
356	375	CCTCCTTGTACCAGTGGCCA	463678	66	n/a	42
357	376	CCCTCCTTGTACCAGTGGCC	463679	76	n/a	43
368	387	CCAGGCGACTGCCCTCCTTG	463689	76	n/a	44
369	388	GCCAGGCGACTGCCCTCCTT	463690	85	n/a	45
370	389	TGCCAGGCGACTGCCCTCCT	463691	78	n/a	46
371	390	GTGCCAGGCGACTGCCCTCC	463692	81	n/a	47
372	391	GGTGCCAGGCGACTGCCCTC	463693	70	n/a	48
388	407	CCGTACACGGCCAGCAGGTG	463708	80	n/a	49
389	408	CCCGTACACGGCCAGCAGGT	463709	85	n/a	50
392	411	AGCCCCGTACACGGCCAGCA	463712	73	n/a	51
397	416	CCTCCAGCCCCGTACACGGC	463717	66	n/a	52
398	417	CCCTCCAGCCCCGTACACGG	463718	66	n/a	53
404	423	GGCGGCCCCTCCAGCCCCGT	463724	70	n/a	54
414	433	GCAATCTCTAGGCGGCCCCT	463733	65	n/a	55
415	434	GGCAATCTCTAGGCGGCCCC	463734	69	n/a	56
416	435	TGGCAATCTCTAGGCGGCCC	463735	67	n/a	57
431	450	CCTCAGGTAGGAAGCTGGCA	463750	56	n/a	58
432	451	TCCTCAGGTAGGAAGCTGGC	463751	76	n/a	59
443	462	AGCGGCCAGCATCCTCAGGT	463762	58	n/a	60
444	463	TAGCGGCCAGCATCCTCAGG	463763	77	n/a	61
599	618	GTGTCCAGTAGGGTGCTTGC	463770	66	n/a	62
601	620	GTGTGTCCAGTAGGGTGCTT	463771	32	n/a	63
624	643	AGTTTCTTCTCCATGCGCTG	463774	72	n/a	64
717	736	GCCTGTCCATCCTTAAGCCA	463791	68	n/a	65
732	751	TTCTCCCCATGAAAGGCCTG	463805	65	n/a	66
734	753	GGTTCTCCCCATGAAAGGCC	463807	60	n/a	67
784	803	CTCCATCACGAGACTCCAGT	463832	65	76	68
787	806	GCTCTCCATCACGAGACTCC	463834	78	59	69
788	807	CGCTCTCCATCACGAGACTC	463835	78	67	70
789	808	ACGCTCTCCATCACGAGACT	463836	69	66	71
790	809	CACGCTCTCCATCACGAGAC	463837	80	75	72
791	810	CCACGCTCTCCATCACGAGA	463838	76	67	73
968	987	ACACCTTGCACAGCAGCTCC	463860	66	67	74
970	989	GTACACCTTGCACAGCAGCT	463861	76	74	75
1021	1040	GCCGTTGATGACGATGTGCT	463871	65	46	76
1024	1043	GCTGCCGTTGATGACGATGT	463874	77	52	77
1025	1044	TGCTGCCGTTGATGACGATG	463875	78	42	78
1026	1045	CTGCTGCCGTTGATGACGAT	463876	78	10	79
1028	1047	AGCTGCTGCCGTTGATGACG	463877	90	54	80
1029	1048	AAGCTGCTGCCGTTGATGAC	463878	73	22	81
1031	1050	CGAAGCTGCTGCCGTTGATG	463880	74	3	82
1084	1103	GCTATTGATGTCTGCAGTCT	463882	76	67	83
1085	1104	AGCTATTGATGTCTGCAGTC	463883	68	56	84
1086	1105	GAGCTATTGATGTCTGCAGT	463884	75	61	85
1097	1116	CCTCCACCTCTGAGCTATTG	463893	74	73	86
1098	1117	ACCTCCACCTCTGAGCTATT	463894	71	71	87
1099	1118	GACCTCCACCTCTGAGCTAT	463906	66	55	88
1100	1119	GGACCTCCACCTCTGAGCTA	463907	77	90	89
1101	1120	AGGACCTCCACCTCTGAGCT	463908	89	47	90
1102	1121	CAGGACCTCCACCTCTGAGC	463909	89	74	91
1103	1122	ACAGGACCTCCACCTCTGAG	463910	79	55	92
1105	1124	GTACAGGACCTCCACCTCTG	463912	69	75	93
1106	1125	GGTACAGGACCTCCACCTCT	463913	71	73	94
1111	1130	CCGCAGGTACAGGACCTCCA	463918	67	72	95
1112	1131	TCCGCAGGTACAGGACCTCC	463919	65	37	96
1115	1134	CGTTCCGCAGGTACAGGACC	463922	70	72	97
1185	1204	GCAGACTGGTAGGAGAGGCC	463937	74	82	98
1186	1205	GGCAGACTGGTAGGAGAGGC	463938	66	7	99
1214	1233	GGTCCTCCTCTGGCAGCACC	463947	68	55	100
1301	1320	GCAGGAGCACAGCCAAGGCC	463967	67	77	101
1329	1348	GCCTGCCCTCGATACAGCCC	463994	68	n/a	102
1417	1436	GCCTGACTCCAGGGAGAACT	464002	73	n/a	103
1419	1438	GAGCCTGACTCCAGGGAGAA	464004	68	n/a	104
1468	1487	GGAGGAGAGACGCACGCCTC	464013	77	n/a	105
1469	1488	TGGAGGAGAGACGCACGCCT	464014	82	n/a	106
1470	1489	CTGGAGGAGAGACGCACGCC	464015	68	n/a	107
1502	1521	GACTCACGAGGCCGGCGAGC	464030	68	n/a	108
1505	1524	CTAGACTCACGAGGCCGGCG	464033	68	n/a	109
1558	1577	CCCAAGCACCAGCCTGTCCC	464037	67	n/a	110
1559	1578	TCCCAAGCACCAGCCTGTCC	464038	79	n/a	111
1562	1581	GCTTCCCAAGCACCAGCCTG	464041	75	n/a	112
1564	1583	GGGCTTCCCAAGCACCAGCC	464043	74	n/a	113
1616	1635	CCATGCCAAAGGCCTCTGCA	464046	65	n/a	114
1618	1637	GTCCATGCCAAAGGCCTCTG	464048	68	n/a	115
1619	1638	GGTCCATGCCAAAGGCCTCT	464049	73	n/a	116

Example 2

Dose-Dependent Antisense Inhibition of Human FGFR4 in HepG2 Cells

Gapmers from Example 1 exhibiting significant in vitro inhibition of human FGFR4 were tested at various doses in HepG2 cells. Cells were plated at a density of 20,000 cells per well and transfected using electroporation with 0.6 nM, 1.3 nM, 2.5 nM, 5.0 nM, and 10.0 μM concentrations of antisense oligonucleotide, as specified in Table 2. After a treatment period of approximately 16 hours, RNA was isolated from the cells and FGFR4 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Human FGFR4 primer probe set RTS3232 was used to measure mRNA levels. FGFR4 mRNA levels were adjusted according to total RNA content, as measured by RIBOGREEN®. Results are presented as percent inhibition of FGFR4, relative to untreated control cells.

The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of each oligonucleotide is also presented in Table 2 and was calculated by plotting the concentrations of oligonucleotides used versus the percent inhibition of FGFR4 mRNA expression achieved at each concentration, and noting the concentration of oligonucleotide at which 50% inhibition of FGFR4 mRNA expression was achieved compared to the control. As illustrated in Table 2, FGFR4 mRNA levels were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner in antisense oligonucleotide treated cells.

TABLE 2
Dose-dependent antisense inhibition of human
FGFR4 in HepG2 cells using electroporation
	0.6	1.3	2.5	5.0	10.0	IC50
ISIS No	μM	μM	μM	μM	μM	(μM)
299005	45	63	77	92	95	0.7
463588	43	66	86	90	97	0.6
463589	41	67	85	92	95	0.6
463628	55	68	87	94	92	0.3
463629	25	40	63	76	91	1.8
463648	36	51	71	85	96	1.1
463672	19	46	74	90	96	1.5
463690	30	66	86	94	97	0.9
463691	31	50	78	89	96	1.1
463692	33	56	75	90	94	1.1
463708	11	45	63	77	94	1.9
463709	35	50	73	86	96	1.1
463750	24	42	54	80	93	1.8
463762	57	76	90	95	98	<0.6
463771	53	44	66	83	88	1.4
463807	13	36	56	87	96	2.0
463834	32	44	68	90	97	1.3
463835	37	59	82	91	97	0.9
463837	28	61	77	92	97	1.1
463838	29	50	72	88	95	1.3
463861	44	52	78	90	97	0.8
463893	29	33	65	84	95	1.6
464013	27	34	50	75	86	2.1
464014	16	33	55	78	90	2.1
464038	37	55	74	90	96	1.0

Example 3

Antisense Inhibition of Human Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR4) in HepG2 Cells

Additional antisense oligonucleotides were designed targeting a FGFR4 nucleic acid and were tested for their effects on FGFR4 mRNA in vitro. Some of the antisense oligonucleotides described in Example 1 were also included in the assay for comparison. Cultured HepG2 cells at a density of 20,000 cells per well were transfected using electroporation with 4,500 nM antisense oligonucleotide. After a treatment period of approximately 24 hours, RNA was isolated from the cells and FGFR4 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Human primer probe set RTS3232 was used to measure mRNA levels. FGFR4 mRNA levels were adjusted according to total RNA content, as measured by RIBOGREEN®. Results are presented as percent inhibition of FGFR4, relative to untreated control cells. A total of 772 oligonucleotides were tested. Only those oligonucleotides demonstrating greater than 65% inhibition are shown in Tables 3 and 4.

The newly designed chimeric antisense oligonucleotides in Table 3 were designed as 5-10-5 MOE gapmers. The gapmers are 20 nucleosides in length, wherein the central gap segment comprises of ten 2′-deoxynucleosides and is flanked by wing segments on the 5′ and 3′ directions comprising five nucleosides each. Each nucleotide in the 5′ wing segment and each nucleotide in the 3′ wing segment has a 2′-MOE modification. The internucleoside linkages throughout each gapmer are phosphorothioate (P═S) linkages. All cytosine residues throughout each gapmer are 5-methylcytosines. “Start site” indicates the 5′-most nucleoside to which the gapmer is targeted in the human gene sequence. “Stop site” indicates the 3′-most nucleoside to which the gapmer is targeted in the human gene sequence.

Each gapmer listed in Table 3 is targeted to either the human FGFR4 mRNA, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 1 (GENBANK Accession No. NM_—002011.3) or the human FGFR4 genomic sequence, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 2 (GENBANK Accession No: NT_—023133.11 truncated from nucleosides 21323018 to 21335213), or both. Some of the antisense oligonucleotides were designed to target variant gene sequences and are listed in Table 4. Each gapmer in Table 4 is listed to either SEQ ID NO: 3 (GENBANK Accession No. AB209631.1)

TABLE 3
Inhibition of human FGFR4 mRNA levels by chimeric antisense
oligonucleotides targeted to SEQ ID NO: 1 and SEQ ID NO: 2
Start	Stop				Start	Stop
Site on	Site on				Site on	Site on
SEQ	SEQ				SEQ	SEQ	SEQ
ID	ID	ISIS		%	ID	ID	ID
NO: 1	NO: 1	No	Sequence	inhibition	NO: 2	NO: 2	NO
160	179	299004	CAGCAGCCGCATCTCCTTCT	88	3165	3184	117
2497	2516	299055	GCTGAAGACAGAATCGCTGG	65	11167	11186	118
292	311	463629	GGCTACTGTCAGCTCCTGCT	87	3993	4012	29
2325	2344	464138	CAGCACTCACGCATCAGCCC	72	10866	10885	119
2326	2345	464139	CCAGCACTCACGCATCAGCC	75	10867	10886	120
2437	2456	464167	GGGTCCGAAGGTCAGGCGGA	68	11107	11126	121
2438	2457	464168	AGGGTCCGAAGGTCAGGCGG	70	11108	11127	122
2440	2459	464170	ATAGGGTCCGAAGGTCAGGC	67	11110	11129	123
2443	2462	464173	GGAATAGGGTCCGAAGGTCA	69	11113	11132	124
2582	2601	464181	GTGCCTGCACAGCCTTGAGC	66	11252	11271	125
2812	2831	464203	TCTCCAGCCAGGCTCAGCCA	72	11482	11501	126
2816	2835	464207	CAGCTCTCCAGCCAGGCTCA	72	11486	11505	127
2817	2836	464208	GCAGCTCTCCAGCCAGGCTC	78	11487	11506	128
2818	2837	464209	AGCAGCTCTCCAGCCAGGCT	79	11488	11507	129
2819	2838	464210	TAGCAGCTCTCCAGCCAGGC	70	11489	11508	130
2822	2841	464213	GCATAGCAGCTCTCCAGCCA	82	11492	11511	131
2823	2842	464214	AGCATAGCAGCTCTCCAGCC	85	11493	11512	132
2824	2843	464215	TAGCATAGCAGCTCTCCAGC	84	11494	11513	133
2825	2844	464216	TTAGCATAGCAGCTCTCCAG	72	11495	11514	134
2951	2970	464222	CCAGCTTCTCTGGGCTCAGG	88	11621	11640	135
2952	2971	464223	TCCAGCTTCTCTGGGCTCAG	86	11622	11641	136
2953	2972	464224	TTCCAGCTTCTCTGGGCTCA	81	11623	11642	137
2954	2973	464225	CTTCCAGCTTCTCTGGGCTC	82	11624	11643	138
2955	2974	464226	GCTTCCAGCTTCTCTGGGCT	79	11625	11644	139
2956	2975	464227	GGCTTCCAGCTTCTCTGGGC	87	11626	11645	140
2981	3000	464228	ACGCCATTTGCTCCTGTTTT	89	11651	11670	141
n/a	n/a	464238	TGCGAATCAATGGGTCCCGA	73	908	927	142
n/a	n/a	464239	GGTGCGAATCAATGGGTCCC	67	910	929	143
n/a	n/a	464254	CCGCCGGCGCGAAGACAGCC	66	984	1003	144
n/a	n/a	464258	CATCTCTGCCGCCGGCGCGA	71	992	1011	145
n/a	n/a	464266	CTGACCGCTGACCGACCACC	76	1138	1157	146
n/a	n/a	464268	GCTGCTGACCGCTGACCGAC	73	1142	1161	147
n/a	n/a	464269	CTGCCCTGATATCAGAGTCC	65	1180	1199	148
n/a	n/a	464270	GGCTGCCCTGATATCAGAGT	65	1182	1201	149
n/a	n/a	464278	CTCAGATACTGCTGTCTCTG	71	1345	1364	150
n/a	n/a	464280	TGCCCATCCCTCTGTGCCCC	72	1386	1405	151
n/a	n/a	464284	TGCTCTCTTGCCCATCCCTC	82	1394	1413	152
n/a	n/a	464285	CTCTTTGGTCACACCGTCTG	82	1461	1480	153
n/a	n/a	464286	ATCTCTTTGGTCACACCGTC	90	1463	1482	154
n/a	n/a	464287	CTATCTCTTTGGTCACACCG	82	1465	1484	155
n/a	n/a	464288	GCCTATCTCTTTGGTCACAC	88	1467	1486	156
n/a	n/a	464290	CGCTGCCTATCTCTTTGGTC	70	1471	1490	157
n/a	n/a	464291	AGCTTGCAAGCCCTTAATGG	70	1542	1561	158
n/a	n/a	464292	CCAGCTTGCAAGCCCTTAAT	69	1544	1563	159
n/a	n/a	464298	ACCTTCATCTTCCAGCAGAG	80	1941	1960	160
n/a	n/a	464299	CAACCTTCATCTTCCAGCAG	76	1943	1962	161
n/a	n/a	464300	TTCAACCTTCATCTTCCAGC	81	1945	1964	162
n/a	n/a	464308	CAGCTTTGCTCAGCCCAGCA	90	3325	3344	163
n/a	n/a	464309	TCCAGCTTTGCTCAGCCCAG	87	3327	3346	164
n/a	n/a	464310	TTTCCAGCTTTGCTCAGCCC	78	3329	3348	165
n/a	n/a	464311	CCTTTCCAGCTTTGCTCAGC	78	3331	3350	166
n/a	n/a	464333	CCAGGTCCACAGTCCAGGGC	75	4799	4818	167
n/a	n/a	464342	ACTTGCCAGAGAGTAGCAGA	66	4836	4855	168
n/a	n/a	464425	GCCATAGCACCTCCTCCAGG	75	7684	7703	169
n/a	n/a	464428	CCCAATGCCATAGCACCTCC	73	7690	7709	170
n/a	n/a	464429	GTCCCAATGCCATAGCACCT	70	7692	7711	171
n/a	n/a	464430	TAGTCCCAATGCCATAGCAC	65	7694	7713	172
n/a	n/a	464433	TTCTATTAGTCCCAATGCCA	69	7700	7719	173
n/a	n/a	464449	GTCACTTGCCAGGGTCAGGA	81	7802	7821	174
n/a	n/a	464453	GCTCAGAAGTCACTTGCCAG	68	7810	7829	175
n/a	n/a	464568	GTCCATCTGGCTTCCCCTGC	68	2031	2050	176
n/a	n/a	464569	CAGTCCATCTGGCTTCCCCT	68	2033	2052	177
n/a	n/a	464575	CCACTCCACTTCCAGTCCAT	65	2045	2064	178
n/a	n/a	464576	TGCCACTCCACTTCCAGTCC	68	2047	2066	179
n/a	n/a	464579	GGTCACTGCCACTCCACTTC	78	2053	2072	180
n/a	n/a	464581	CCTTGGTCACTGCCACTCCA	68	2057	2076	181
n/a	n/a	464582	GGAAGCCTATCACACCTCCT	67	2080	2099	182
n/a	n/a	464584	GTGTCTCTGGATCTACCCTG	71	2104	2123	183
n/a	n/a	464585	TGGTGTCTCTGGATCTACCC	74	2106	2125	184
n/a	n/a	464586	ACTGGTGTCTCTGGATCTAC	72	2108	2127	185
n/a	n/a	464587	GCACTGGTGTCTCTGGATCT	83	2110	2129	186
n/a	n/a	464588	TGGCACTGGTGTCTCTGGAT	88	2112	2131	187
n/a	n/a	464589	GGTGGCACTGGTGTCTCTGG	88	2114	2133	188
n/a	n/a	464590	TGGGTGGCACTGGTGTCTCT	74	2116	2135	189
n/a	n/a	464591	TATGGGTGGCACTGGTGTCT	74	2118	2137	190
n/a	n/a	464593	GGCCTATGGGTGGCACTGGT	68	2122	2141	191
n/a	n/a	464617	GTCAGGCTGTGATGTACACA	69	2261	2280	192
n/a	n/a	464622	TGCTGTTACTGTCAGGCTGT	73	2271	2290	193
n/a	n/a	464623	GCCAGTCACCTCTGGTTCGG	68	2292	2311	194
n/a	n/a	464657	AGCAGTTTTGGGATTCTTTT	72	2838	2857	195
n/a	n/a	464658	AAAGCAGTTTTGGGATTCTT	67	2840	2859	196
n/a	n/a	464677	TCCAAGTCCCTGGCCAGGCT	65	2993	3012	197
n/a	n/a	464682	ATCCTTTCCAGCTTTGCTCA	78	3333	3352	198
n/a	n/a	464683	GGATCCTTTCCAGCTTTGCT	90	3335	3354	199
n/a	n/a	464684	AAGGATCCTTTCCAGCTTTG	72	3337	3356	200
n/a	n/a	464685	GCAAGGATCCTTTCCAGCTT	88	3339	3358	201
n/a	n/a	464686	GGGCAAGGATCCTTTCCAGC	82	3341	3360	202
n/a	n/a	464687	CTGGGCAAGGATCCTTTCCA	71	3343	3362	203
n/a	n/a	464688	GCCTGGGCAAGGATCCTTTC	69	3345	3364	204
n/a	n/a	464689	GTGGTTGAGCCCTGCCCTGC	67	3380	3399	205
n/a	n/a	464692	GTCTCAGTGGTTGAGCCCTG	71	3386	3405	206
n/a	n/a	464696	CTGACTGAGTCTCAGTGGTT	82	3394	3413	207
n/a	n/a	464698	GGCACTGACTGAGTCTCAGT	84	3398	3417	208
n/a	n/a	464699	CAGGCACTGACTGAGTCTCA	79	3400	3419	209
n/a	n/a	464701	AAGCCAGGCACTGACTGAGT	72	3404	3423	210
n/a	n/a	464703	CTGGAAGCCAGGCACTGACT	70	3408	3427	211
n/a	n/a	464705	GCTTGCTGGAAGCCAGGCAC	67	3413	3432	212
n/a	n/a	464706	ATGCTTGCTGGAAGCCAGGC	80	3415	3434	213
n/a	n/a	464707	GTCCTCTCTCGCAGACACAG	84	3445	3464	214
n/a	n/a	464708	CAGTCCTCTCTCGCAGACAC	86	3447	3466	215
n/a	n/a	464709	GCCAGTCCTCTCTCGCAGAC	86	3449	3468	216
n/a	n/a	464710	AGGCCAGTCCTCTCTCGCAG	90	3451	3470	217
n/a	n/a	464711	GAGCTCACCACCAGCTCTGC	70	3499	3518	218
n/a	n/a	464716	GCTGCCTGGACCTCCTAGGT	90	3571	3590	219
n/a	n/a	464717	ATGCTGCCTGGACCTCCTAG	85	3573	3592	220
n/a	n/a	464718	ACATGCTGCCTGGACCTCCT	89	3575	3594	221
n/a	n/a	464719	ACACATGCTGCCTGGACCTC	73	3577	3596	222
n/a	n/a	464720	CCACACATGCTGCCTGGACC	88	3579	3598	223
n/a	n/a	464726	GCAAATGCCACACTCTTGGG	67	3770	3789	224
n/a	n/a	464727	GGGCAAATGCCACACTCTTG	78	3772	3791	225
n/a	n/a	464728	CAGGGCAAATGCCACACTCT	71	3774	3793	226
n/a	n/a	464729	CCCAGGGCAAATGCCACACT	87	3776	3795	227
n/a	n/a	464730	CACCCAGGGCAAATGCCACA	78	3778	3797	228
n/a	n/a	464732	GCCACACCCAGGGCAAATGC	87	3782	3801	229
n/a	n/a	464734	GGATGCCACACCCAGGGCAA	66	3786	3805	230
n/a	n/a	464735	GCGGATGCCACACCCAGGGC	87	3788	3807	231
n/a	n/a	464736	CTGCGGATGCCACACCCAGG	67	3790	3809	232
n/a	n/a	464740	GCCACATGCTGCGGATGCCA	88	3798	3817	233
n/a	n/a	464800	GGACTTCCCACCAACTGCCT	71	3122	3141	234
n/a	n/a	464801	GCTGGACTTCCCACCAACTG	77	3125	3144	235

TABLE 4
Inhibition of human FGFR4 mRNA levels by
chimeric antisense oligonucleotides
targeted to SEQ ID NO: 3
Target
Start		ISIS	%	SEQ ID
Site	Sequence	No	inhibition	NO
1502	CAAGGAGCTCACCACCAGCT	464713	83	236
1504	GGCAAGGAGCTCACCACCAG	464714	76	237
1506	CAGGCAAGGAGCTCACCACC	464715	69	238

Example 4

Dose-Dependent Antisense Inhibition of Human FGFR4 in HepG2 Cells

Gapmers from Example 3 which caused significant inhibition of FGFR4 mRNA were further tested at various doses in HepG2 cells. Cells were plated at a density of 20,000 cells per well and transfected using electroporation with 0.6 μM, 1.3 μM, 2.5 μM, 5.0 μM, and 10.0 μM concentrations of antisense oligonucleotide, as specified in Table 5. After a treatment period of approximately 16 hours, RNA was isolated from the cells and FGFR4 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Human FGFR4 primer probe set RTS3232 was used to measure mRNA levels. FGFR4 mRNA levels were adjusted according to total RNA content, as measured by RIBOGREEN®. Results are presented as percent inhibition of FGFR4, relative to untreated control cells.

The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of each oligonucleotide is also presented in Table 5. As illustrated in Table 5, FGFR4 mRNA levels were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner in antisense oligonucleotide treated cells.

TABLE 5
Dose-dependent antisense inhibition of human
FGFR4 in HepG2 cells using electroporation
	0.6	1.3	2.5	5.0	10.0	IC50
ISIS No	μM	μM	μM	μM	μM	(μM)
299004	20	44	73	87	96	1.5
463629	23	54	80	87	96	1.0
464138	0	32	57	84	91	2.3
464208	28	37	58	76	87	1.8
464209	22	30	64	79	80	2.0
464213	21	40	54	79	90	1.9
464214	14	31	55	84	93	2.1
464215	35	38	67	85	94	1.4
464222	29	53	73	89	93	1.2
464223	16	0	63	76	88	3.2
464225	36	43	74	85	88	1.2
464227	29	56	64	86	90	1.3
464228	52	76	82	91	92	0.3
464284	21	44	67	83	91	1.6
464285	27	36	57	81	93	1.9
464286	35	47	70	89	95	1.2
464287	26	50	68	85	90	1.4
464288	19	49	55	83	90	1.7
464300	25	34	47	75	93	2.1
464308	35	57	77	94	97	1.0
464309	4	25	65	89	95	2.1
464425	2	31	52	71	81	2.7
464449	32	59	78	88	95	1.0
464587	25	52	75	88	91	1.3
464588	26	74	84	93	93	1.0
464589	29	62	83	90	93	1.0
464683	10	35	50	71	90	2.4
464685	14	42	42	62	88	2.6
464686	12	44	66	81	95	1.8
464696	22	43	68	85	94	1.6
464698	12	10	20	44	71	5.9
464706	16	52	46	84	92	1.8
464707	26	40	69	84	93	1.5
464708	18	46	57	84	94	1.7
464709	6	14	32	58	84	3.7
464710	12	30	44	65	86	2.7
464713	9	28	47	78	92	2.4
464716	21	45	64	86	93	1.6
464717	13	37	57	86	94	2.0
464718	22	56	80	93	97	1.2
464720	15	33	49	77	92	2.2
464729	15	20	35	69	84	3.0
464732	19	55	73	85	93	1.4
464735	27	45	62	89	94	1.5
464740	10	44	65	82	89	1.9
464801	17	53	56	81	92	1.7

Example 5

Dose-Dependent Antisense Inhibition of Human FGFR4 in HepG2 Cells

Gapmers from the studies described above which caused significant inhibition of FGFR4 mRNA were further tested at various doses in HepG2 cells. Cells were plated at a density of 20,000 cells per well and transfected using electroporation with 0.3 μM, 0.6 μM, 1.3 μM, 2.5 μM, 5.0 μM, and 10.0 μM concentrations of antisense oligonucleotide, as specified in Table 6. After a treatment period of approximately 16 hours, RNA was isolated from the cells and FGFR4 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Human FGFR4 primer probe set RTS3232 was used to measure mRNA levels. FGFR4 mRNA levels were adjusted according to total RNA content, as measured by RIBOGREEN®. Results are presented as percent inhibition of FGFR4, relative to untreated control cells.

The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of each oligonucleotide is also presented in Table 6. As illustrated in Table 6, FGFR4 mRNA levels were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner in antisense oligonucleotide treated cells.

TABLE 6
Dose-dependent antisense inhibition of human
FGFR4 in HepG2 cells using electroporation
		0.3	0.6	1.3	2.5	5.0	10.0	IC50
	ISIS No	μM	μM	μM	μM	μM	μM	(μM)
	299004	0	20	14	49	70	89	2.5
	299005	7	25	52	76	92	96	1.3
	463588	26	22	43	84	94	98	1.3
	463589	13	24	52	74	92	95	1.3
	463628	27	45	57	76	94	95	0.8
	463629	24	36	67	85	93	96	0.9
	463648	14	21	38	54	75	90	1.9
	463672	8	28	41	57	86	95	1.6
	463690	22	17	59	74	91	97	1.3
	463691	10	24	45	60	86	87	1.6
	463692	0	10	33	56	76	92	2.2
	463709	12	22	36	66	85	95	1.6
	463762	0	22	16	29	0	84	>10.0
	463771	0	29	38	49	66	89	2.2
	463834	14	24	43	52	79	94	1.7
	463835	18	35	40	58	82	94	1.4
	463837	8	22	53	73	89	97	1.4
	463838	12	23	44	56	77	91	1.7
	463861	25	41	41	61	76	90	1.3
	463907	0	25	51	68	84	95	1.6
	463909	19	39	54	82	93	97	1.0
	464038	8	22	36	44	72	89	2.2

Example 6

Dose-Dependent Antisense Inhibition of Human FGFR4 in HepG2 Cells

Gapmers from the study described in Example 4 exhibiting significant in vitro inhibition of FGFR4 mRNA were selected and tested at various doses in HepG2 cells. Cells were plated at a density of 20,000 cells per well and transfected using electroporation with 0.6 μM, 1.3 μM, 2.5 μM, 5.0 μM and 10.0 μM concentrations of antisense oligonucleotide, as specified in Table 7. After a treatment period of approximately 16 hours, RNA was isolated from the cells and FGFR4 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Human FGFR4 primer probe set RTS3232 was used to measure mRNA levels. FGFR4 mRNA levels were adjusted according to total RNA content, as measured by RIBOGREEN®. Results are presented as percent inhibition of FGFR4, relative to untreated control cells.

The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of each oligonucleotide is also presented in Table 7. As illustrated in Table 7, FGFR4 mRNA levels were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner in antisense oligonucleotide treated cells.

TABLE 7
Dose-dependent antisense inhibition of human
FGFR4 in HepG2 cells using electroporation
	0.6	1.3	2.5	5.0	10.0	IC50
ISIS No	μM	μM	μM	μM	μM	(μM)
463629	44	73	86	96	98	<0.6
464222	40	65	81	88	96	0.7
464225	47	76	84	92	86	<0.6
464228	56	80	86	92	95	<0.6
464284	24	47	62	78	90	1.6
464286	23	60	73	86	93	1.2
464287	19	62	69	89	91	1.3
464308	38	54	78	90	96	1.0
464449	27	69	80	91	94	0.9
464587	24	68	74	88	91	1.1
464588	42	75	81	88	92	<0.6
464589	36	69	78	90	92	0.8
464716	52	60	75	90	95	0.6
464718	38	61	76	91	95	0.9
464732	30	39	65	85	94	1.5

Example 7

Antisense Inhibition of Human Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR4) in HepG2 Cells

Additional antisense oligonucleotides were designed targeting a FGFR4 nucleic acid and were tested for their effects on FGFR4 mRNA in vitro. ISIS 463629 and ISIS 463762 were also included in the assay for comparison. Cultured HepG2 cells at a density of 20,000 cells per well were transfected using electroporation with 4,500 nM antisense oligonucleotide. After a treatment period of approximately 24 hours, RNA was isolated from the cells and FGFR4 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Human primer probe set RTS3232 was used to measure mRNA levels. FGFR4 mRNA levels were adjusted according to total RNA content, as measured by RIBOGREEN®. Results are presented as percent inhibition of FGFR4, relative to untreated control cells. A total of 230 oligonucleotides were tested. Only those oligonucleotides demonstrating greater than 65% inhibition are shown in Table 8.

The newly designed chimeric antisense oligonucleotides in Table 8 were designed as 5-10-5 MOE gapmers or 3-10-4 MOE gapmers. The 5-10-5 gapmers are 20 nucleosides in length, wherein the central gap segment comprises of ten 2′-deoxynucleosides and is flanked by wing segments on the 5′ and 3′ directions comprising five nucleosides each. The 3-10-4 gapmers are 17 nucleosides in length, wherein the central gap segment comprises of ten 2′-deoxynucleosides and is flanked by a wing segment in the 5′ direction comprising three nucleosides and a wing segment in the 3′ direction comprising four nucleosides. Each nucleotide in the 5′ wing segment and each nucleotide in the 3′ wing segment has a 2′-MOE modification. The internucleoside linkages throughout each gapmer are phosphorothioate (P═S) linkages. All cytosine residues throughout each gapmer are 5-methylcytosines. “Start site” indicates the 5′-most nucleoside to which the gapmer is targeted in the human gene sequence. “Stop site” indicates the 3′-most nucleoside to which the gapmer is targeted in the human gene sequence.

Each gapmer listed in Table 8 is targeted to either the human FGFR4 mRNA, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 1 (GENBANK Accession No. NM_—002011.3) or the human FGFR4 genomic sequence, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 2 (GENBANK Accession No: NT_—023133.11 truncated from nucleosides 21323018 to 21335213), or SEQ ID NO: 3 (GENBANK Accession No. AB209631.1), or all three.

TABLE 8
Inhibition of human FGFR4 mRNA levels by chimeric antisense oligo-
nucleotides targeted to SEQ ID NO: 1, SEQ ID NO: 2 and SEQ ID NO: 3
Start	Start	Start
Site on	Site on	Site on
SEQ	SEQ	SEQ					SEQ
ID NO:	ID NO:	ID NO:			ISIS	%	ID
1	2	3	Motif	Sequence	No	inhibition	NO
292	3993	1996	5-10-5	GGCTACTGTCAGCTCCTGCT	463629	93	29
118	3123	1122	5-10-5	TGGACTTCCCACCAACTGCC	479530	77	239
n/a	2109	101	5-10-5	CACTGGTGTCTCTGGATCTA	479532	78	240
n/a	2111	103	5-10-5	GGCACTGGTGTCTCTGGATC	479533	89	241
n/a	2113	105	5-10-5	GTGGCACTGGTGTCTCTGGA	479534	92	242
n/a	2115	107	5-10-5	GGGTGGCACTGGTGTCTCTG	479535	88	243
n/a	3334	1333	5-10-5	GATCCTTTCCAGCTTTGCTC	479536	91	244
n/a	3336	1335	5-10-5	AGGATCCTTTCCAGCTTTGC	479537	84	245
n/a	3338	1337	5-10-5	CAAGGATCCTTTCCAGCTTT	479538	65	246
n/a	3340	1339	5-10-5	GGCAAGGATCCTTTCCAGCT	479539	88	247
n/a	3342	1341	5-10-5	TGGGCAAGGATCCTTTCCAG	479540	68	248
n/a	3393	1392	5-10-5	TGACTGAGTCTCAGTGGTTG	479541	71	249
n/a	3395	1394	5-10-5	ACTGACTGAGTCTCAGTGGT	479542	80	250
n/a	3397	1396	5-10-5	GCACTGACTGAGTCTCAGTG	479543	76	251
n/a	3399	1398	5-10-5	AGGCACTGACTGAGTCTCAG	479544	77	252
n/a	3414	1413	5-10-5	TGCTTGCTGGAAGCCAGGCA	479545	83	253
n/a	3446	1445	5-10-5	AGTCCTCTCTCGCAGACACA	479546	88	254
n/a	3448	1447	5-10-5	CCAGTCCTCTCTCGCAGACA	479547	80	255
n/a	3450	1449	5-10-5	GGCCAGTCCTCTCTCGCAGA	479548	92	256
n/a	3502	1501	5-10-5	AAGGAGCTCACCACCAGCTC	479549	76	257
n/a	n/a	1503	5-10-5	GCAAGGAGCTCACCACCAGC	479550	79	258
n/a	3570	1569	5-10-5	CTGCCTGGACCTCCTAGGTC	479551	95	259
n/a	3572	1571	5-10-5	TGCTGCCTGGACCTCCTAGG	479552	85	260
n/a	3574	1573	5-10-5	CATGCTGCCTGGACCTCCTA	479553	80	261
n/a	3576	1575	5-10-5	CACATGCTGCCTGGACCTCC	479554	80	262
n/a	3578	1577	5-10-5	CACACATGCTGCCTGGACCT	479555	71	263
n/a	3580	1579	5-10-5	ACCACACATGCTGCCTGGAC	479556	87	264
n/a	3775	1778	5-10-5	CCAGGGCAAATGCCACACTC	479557	71	265
n/a	3777	1780	5-10-5	ACCCAGGGCAAATGCCACAC	479558	83	266
n/a	3783	1786	5-10-5	TGCCACACCCAGGGCAAATG	479560	67	267
n/a	3787	1790	5-10-5	CGGATGCCACACCCAGGGCA	479561	70	268
n/a	3789	1792	5-10-5	TGCGGATGCCACACCCAGGG	479562	78	269
n/a	3799	1802	5-10-5	AGCCACATGCTGCGGATGCC	479564	71	270
n/a	1393	n/a	5-10-5	GCTCTCTTGCCCATCCCTCT	479565	81	271
n/a	1462	n/a	5-10-5	TCTCTTTGGTCACACCGTCT	479566	90	272
n/a	1464	n/a	5-10-5	TATCTCTTTGGTCACACCGT	479567	67	273
n/a	1466	n/a	5-10-5	CCTATCTCTTTGGTCACACC	479568	83	274
n/a	1468	n/a	5-10-5	TGCCTATCTCTTTGGTCACA	479569	76	275
n/a	1944	n/a	5-10-5	TCAACCTTCATCTTCCAGCA	479570	80	276
n/a	3324	1323	5-10-5	AGCTTTGCTCAGCCCAGCAG	479572	75	277
n/a	3326	1325	5-10-5	CCAGCTTTGCTCAGCCCAGC	479573	85	278
n/a	3328	1327	5-10-5	TTCCAGCTTTGCTCAGCCCA	479574	79	279
n/a	7801	n/a	5-10-5	TCACTTGCCAGGGTCAGGAG	479576	70	280
n/a	7803	n/a	5-10-5	AGTCACTTGCCAGGGTCAGG	479577	65	281
n/a	1462	n/a	3-10-4	CTTTGGTCACACCGTCT	479582	74	282
n/a	1463	n/a	3-10-4	TCTTTGGTCACACCGTC	479583	84	283
n/a	1464	n/a	3-10-4	CTCTTTGGTCACACCGT	479584	82	284
n/a	1465	n/a	3-10-4	TCTCTTTGGTCACACCG	479585	71	285
n/a	3326	1325	3-10-4	GCTTTGCTCAGCCCAGC	479594	80	286
n/a	3328	1327	3-10-4	CAGCTTTGCTCAGCCCA	479596	81	287
n/a	3329	1328	3-10-4	CCAGCTTTGCTCAGCCC	479597	78	288
161	3166	1165	3-10-4	GCAGCCGCATCTCCTTC	479608	70	289
194	3199	1198	3-10-4	GCACACTCAGCAGGACC	479613	72	290
195	3200	1199	3-10-4	GGCACACTCAGCAGGAC	479614	78	291
349	4050	2053	3-10-4	CCAGTGGCCACCACGCT	479622	67	292
369	4070	2073	3-10-4	AGGCGACTGCCCTCCTT	479625	68	293
370	4071	2074	3-10-4	CAGGCGACTGCCCTCCT	479626	71	294
602	4506	2418	3-10-4	GTGTCCAGTAGGGTGCT	479641	70	295
2819	11489	4988	3-10-4	CAGCTCTCCAGCCAGGC	479682	71	296
2951	11621	5120	3-10-4	GCTTCTCTGGGCTCAGG	479689	72	297
2952	11622	5121	3-10-4	AGCTTCTCTGGGCTCAG	479690	78	298
2953	11623	5122	3-10-4	CAGCTTCTCTGGGCTCA	479691	87	299
2954	11624	5123	3-10-4	CCAGCTTCTCTGGGCTC	479692	87	300
2955	11625	5124	3-10-4	TCCAGCTTCTCTGGGCT	479693	71	301
2956	11626	5125	3-10-4	TTCCAGCTTCTCTGGGC	479694	67	302
2958	11628	5127	3-10-4	GCTTCCAGCTTCTCTGG	479696	65	303
2981	11651	5150	3-10-4	CCATTTGCTCCTGTTTT	479697	73	304
2982	11652	5151	3-10-4	GCCATTTGCTCCTGTTT	479698	88	305
2983	11653	5152	3-10-4	CGCCATTTGCTCCTGTT	479699	92	306
n/a	2113	105	3-10-4	GCACTGGTGTCTCTGGA	479703	88	307
n/a	2114	106	3-10-4	GGCACTGGTGTCTCTGG	479704	95	308
n/a	2115	107	3-10-4	TGGCACTGGTGTCTCTG	479705	78	309
n/a	2116	108	3-10-4	GTGGCACTGGTGTCTCT	479706	90	310
n/a	3395	1394	3-10-4	GACTGAGTCTCAGTGGT	479716	71	311
n/a	3415	1414	3-10-4	CTTGCTGGAAGCCAGGC	479721	82	312
n/a	3416	1415	3-10-4	GCTTGCTGGAAGCCAGG	479722	82	313
n/a	3446	1445	3-10-4	CCTCTCTCGCAGACACA	479725	70	314
n/a	3452	1451	3-10-4	GCCAGTCCTCTCTCGCA	479731	78	315
n/a	3453	1452	3-10-4	GGCCAGTCCTCTCTCGC	479732	69	316
n/a	3571	1570	3-10-4	GCCTGGACCTCCTAGGT	479736	97	317
n/a	3572	1571	3-10-4	TGCCTGGACCTCCTAGG	479737	69	318
n/a	3573	1572	3-10-4	CTGCCTGGACCTCCTAG	479738	76	319
n/a	3574	1573	3-10-4	GCTGCCTGGACCTCCTA	479739	88	320
n/a	3575	1574	3-10-4	TGCTGCCTGGACCTCCT	479740	66	321
n/a	3576	1575	3-10-4	ATGCTGCCTGGACCTCC	479741	72	322

Example 8

Dose-Dependent Antisense Inhibition of Human FGFR4 in HepG2 Cells

Gapmers from Examples 5, 6 and 7 exhibiting significant in vitro inhibition of FGFR4 mRNA were further selected and tested at various doses in HepG2 cells. Cells were plated at a density of 20,000 cells per well and transfected using electroporation with 0.6 μM, 1.3 μM, 2.5 μM, 5.0 μM, and 10.0 μM concentrations of antisense oligonucleotide, as specified in Table 9. After a treatment period of approximately 16 hours, RNA was isolated from the cells and FGFR4 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Human FGFR4 primer probe set RTS3232 was used to measure mRNA levels. FGFR4 mRNA levels were adjusted according to total RNA content, as measured by RIBOGREEN®. Results are presented as percent inhibition of FGFR4, relative to untreated control cells.

The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of each oligonucleotide is also presented in Table 9. As illustrated in Table 9, FGFR4 mRNA levels were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner in antisense oligonucleotide treated cells.

TABLE 9
Dose-dependent antisense inhibition of human
FGFR4 in HepG2 cells using electroporation
	0.6	1.3	2.5	5.0	10.0	IC50
ISIS No	μM	μM	μM	μM	μM	(μM)
299005	31	50	66	89	95	1.3
463588	25	48	70	91	97	1.4
463589	33	46	69	87	96	1.3
463628	49	67	77	90	97	<0.6
463629	36	58	70	88	92	1.6
463648	34	41	49	64	84	1.9
463672	16	34	68	84	94	1.8
463690	42	58	75	88	97	0.8
463691	27	38	73	83	96	1.5
463692	3	39	57	76	94	2.2
463709	22	43	64	82	95	1.6
463762	13	29	46	74	90	2.5
463771	40	31	51	78	91	1.7
463834	23	44	55	78	93	1.8
463835	30	39	65	83	95	1.5
463837	29	43	72	87	95	1.4
463838	23	40	59	77	93	1.8
463861	9	33	61	82	97	2.1
464038	19	25	42	61	88	2.8
464222	30	56	75	87	95	1.1
464225	40	60	79	85	90	0.8
464228	50	72	86	91	94	<0.6
464284	30	52	59	84	90	1.4
464286	50	65	83	92	95	<0.6
464287	24	50	67	89	92	1.4
464308	36	56	76	90	97	1.0
464449	44	73	85	93	95	<0.6
464587	33	54	79	92	98	1.0
464588	53	76	89	95	95	<0.6
464589	30	66	80	93	95	0.9
464716	33	41	69	86	95	1.4
464718	33	56	77	93	98	1.0
464732	27	43	61	86	95	1.6
479533	68	84	89	93	95	<0.6
479534	67	74	92	95	97	<0.6
479535	54	72	81	91	95	<0.6
479536	38	68	86	96	98	0.7
479539	39	52	77	92	98	1.0
479546	32	70	78	91	98	0.9
479548	49	71	81	93	96	<0.6
479551	72	82	91	95	97	<0.6
479556	36	63	83	90	97	0.9

Example 9

Dose-Dependent Antisense Inhibition of Human FGFR4 in HepG2 Cells

Gapmers from Examples 7 and 8 exhibiting significant in vitro inhibition of FGFR4 mRNA were further selected and tested at various doses in HepG2 cells. Cells were plated at a density of 20,000 cells per well and transfected using electroporation with 0156 μM, 0.31 μM, 0.63 μM, 1.25 μM, 2.50 μM and 5.00 μM concentrations of antisense oligonucleotide, as specified in Table 10. After a treatment period of approximately 16 hours, RNA was isolated from the cells and FGFR4 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Human FGFR4 primer probe set RTS3232 was used to measure mRNA levels. FGFR4 mRNA levels were adjusted according to total RNA content, as measured by RIBOGREEN®. Results are presented as percent inhibition of FGFR4, relative to untreated control cells.

The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of each oligonucleotide is also presented in Table 10. As illustrated in Table 10, FGFR4 mRNA levels were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner in antisense oligonucleotide treated cells.

TABLE 10
Dose-dependent antisense inhibition of human
FGFR4 in HepG2 cells using electroporation
	0.156	0.31	0.63	1.25	2.50	5.00	IC50
ISIS No	μM	μM	μM	μM	μM	μM	(μM)
463629	19	30	48	66	84	91	0.7
479533	18	33	63	67	84	86	0.6
479534	18	25	34	63	82	86	0.9
479535	24	28	43	62	68	81	0.9
479536	25	28	29	62	78	90	0.8
479539	8	16	36	48	75	88	1.1
479546	0	27	33	63	77	87	1.1
479548	8	39	30	62	74	85	0.9
479551	27	44	59	80	86	89	0.4
479556	16	29	32	53	71	87	1.0
479566	19	27	29	63	81	88	0.9
479584	3	22	30	58	80	88	1.0
479596	4	20	32	54	71	88	1.1
479691	18	11	50	62	80	91	0.8
479692	12	26	49	61	79	90	0.8
479698	23	40	57	73	87	92	0.5
479699	17	37	60	76	90	93	0.5
479703	18	20	41	67	82	89	0.8
479704	31	43	66	80	90	92	0.4
479706	26	18	36	58	76	90	0.9
479736	36	48	71	86	93	94	0.3

Example 10

Tolerability of Antisense Oligonucleotides Targeting Human FGFR4 in CD1 Mice

CD1® mice (Charles River, MA) are a multipurpose mice model, frequently utilized for safety and efficacy testing. The mice were treated with ISIS antisense oligonucleotides selected from studies described above and evaluated for changes in the levels of various markers.

Treatment

Groups of five male CD1 mice were injected subcutaneously twice a week for 6 weeks with 50 mg/kg of ISIS 299005, ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, ISIS 463628, ISIS 463690, ISIS 463691, ISIS 463835, ISIS 463837, ISIS 464222, ISIS 464225, ISIS 464228, ISIS 464286, ISIS 464308, ISIS 464449, ISIS 464587, ISIS 464588, ISIS 464589, ISIS 464718, ISIS 479533, ISIS 479551, ISIS 479691, ISIS 479692, ISIS 479698, ISIS 479699, ISIS 479703, ISIS 479704, ISIS 479706, or ISIS 479736. One group of male CD1 mice was injected subcutaneously twice a week for 6 weeks with PBS. Mice were euthanized 48 hours after the last dose, and plasma were harvested for further analysis. Treatment with ISIS 479691 caused death of the mice and that ISIS oligonucleotide was therefore removed from further study.

Plasma Chemistry Markers

To evaluate the effect of ISIS oligonucleotides on metabolic function, plasma concentrations of transaminases, bilirubin, albumin, creatinine, and BUN were measured using an automated clinical chemistry analyzer (Hitachi Olympus AU400e, Melville, N.Y.). The transaminase levels are expressed as IU/L; the bilirubin, creatinine, and BUN levels are expressed as mg/dL; and the albumin is expressed in g/dL. The results are presented in Table 11. ISIS oligonucleotides that caused adverse changes in the levels of any of the plasma chemistry markers were excluded in further studies.

TABLE 11
ALT, AST, Bilirubin, BUN, Creatinine and Albumin
levels in CD1 mouse plasma at week 6
	ALT	AST
	(IU/	(IU/	Bilirubin	BUN	Creatinine	Albumin
	L)	L)	(mg/dL)	(mg/dL)	(mg/dL)	(g/dL)
PBS	34	59	0.2	33	0.16	3.3
ISIS 299005	50	72	0.1	27	0.12	2.8
ISIS 463588	55	72	0.1	30	0.12	3.0
ISIS 463589	64	79	0.2	28	0.10	2.7
ISIS 463628	48	83	0.1	27	0.13	3.0
ISIS 463690	71	93	0.2	29	0.13	3.0
ISIS 463691	145	134	0.2	26	0.10	3.0
ISIS 463835	159	113	0.2	26	0.11	3.0
ISIS 463837	59	78	0.1	27	0.09	2.8
ISIS 464222	559	564	0.2	23	0.09	2.7
ISIS 464225	83	88	0.1	25	0.09	2.8
ISIS 464228	58	93	0.1	29	0.10	2.8
ISIS 464286	139	154	0.1	21	0.05	2.8
ISIS 464308	2533	1673	0.2	28	0.11	3.3
ISIS 464449	748	451	0.2	24	0.08	3.0
ISIS 464587	183	159	0.1	25	0.11	3.0
ISIS 464588	256	726	0.2	21	0.03	2.0
ISIS 464589	142	126	0.2	27	0.09	2.9
ISIS 464718	789	608	0.2	19	0.03	2.7
ISIS 479533	61	76	0.1	22	0.09	2.9
ISIS 479551	81	104	0.2	26	0.13	3.0
ISIS 479692	847	1026	0.3	26	0.10	3.1
ISIS 479698	92	133	0.2	29	0.12	2.7
ISIS 479699	57	95	0.1	20	0.09	2.6
ISIS 479703	158	108	0.1	23	0.11	3.0
ISIS 479704	38	56	0.2	23	0.10	3.2
ISIS 479706	700	642	0.5	26	0.12	3.1
ISIS 479736	204	134	0.1	25	0.11	2.9

Example 11

Tolerability of Antisense Oligonucleotides Targeting Human FGFR4 in Sprague-Dawley Rats

Sprague-Dawley rats are a multipurpose model used for safety and efficacy evaluations. The rats were treated with ISIS antisense oligonucleotides from the study described in Example 10 and evaluated for changes in the levels of various plasma chemistry markers.

Treatment

Seven week old male Sprague-Dawley rats were maintained on a 12-hour light/dark cycle and fed ad libitum with Purina normal rat chow, diet 5001. Groups of four Sprague-Dawley rats each were injected subcutaneously twice a week for 4 weeks with 50 mg/kg of ISIS 299005, ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, ISIS 463628, ISIS 463690, ISIS 463691, ISIS 463835, ISIS 463837, ISIS 464222, ISIS 464225, ISIS 464228, ISIS 464286, ISIS 464308, ISIS 464449, ISIS 464587, ISIS 464718, ISIS 479533, ISIS 479551, ISIS 479691, ISIS 479692, ISIS 479698, ISIS 479699, ISIS 479703, ISIS 479704, ISIS 479706, or ISIS 479736. A group of rats were injected subcutaneously twice a week for 4 weeks with PBS. Forty eight hours after the last dose, rats were euthanized and plasmas were harvested for further analysis.

Liver Function

To evaluate the effect of ISIS oligonucleotides on hepatic function, plasma concentrations of transaminases were measured using an automated clinical chemistry analyzer (Hitachi Olympus AU400e, Melville, N.Y.). Plasma concentrations of ALT (alanine transaminase) and AST (aspartate transaminase) were measured and the results are presented in Table 12, expressed in IU/L. Plasma levels of bilirubin were also measured using the same clinical chemistry analyzer and the results are also presented in Table 12, expressed as mg/dL. ISIS oligonucleotides that caused adverse changes were excluded in further studies.

TABLE 12
Effect of antisense oligonucleotide treatment on ALT, AST, and Bilirubin
in the liver of Sprague-Dawley rats
	ALT	AST	Bilirubin
	(IU/L)	(IU/L)	(g/dL)
	PBS	52	206	0.15
	ISIS 299005	72	387	0.16
	ISIS 463588	56	305	0.13
	ISIS 463589	82	553	0.15
	ISIS 463628	351	351	0.13
	ISIS 463690	81	367	0.14
	ISIS 463691	83	368	0.13
	ISIS 463835	90	345	0.13
	ISIS 463837	67	301	0.11
	ISIS 464222	231	322	0.19
	ISIS 464225	66	241	0.11
	ISIS 464228	77	359	0.57
	ISIS 464286	96	207	0.11
	ISIS 464308	59	295	0.12
	ISIS 464449	158	509	0.15
	ISIS 464587	414	373	0.29
	ISIS 464588	215	278	0.40
	ISIS 464589	282	482	0.32
	ISIS 464718	280	577	0.43
	ISIS 479533	391	457	0.29
	ISIS 479551	1360	1300	0.41
	ISIS 479691	383	439	0.35
	ISIS 479692	674	675	0.24
	ISIS 479698	354	775	0.86
	ISIS 479699	145	455	0.90
	ISIS 479703	779	781	0.54
	ISIS 479704	790	1243	0.41
	ISIS 479706	570	680	0.36
	ISIS 479736	499	644	0.24

Kidney Function

To evaluate the effect of ISIS oligonucleotides on kidney function, plasma concentrations of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine were measured using an automated clinical chemistry analyzer (Hitachi Olympus AU400e, Melville, N.Y.). Results are presented in Table 13, expressed in mg/dL.

TABLE 13
Effect of antisense oligonucleotide treatment on renal function markers
(mg/dL) of Sprague-Dawley rats
	BUN	Creatinine
	Saline	18	0.29
	ISIS 299005	20	0.33
	ISIS 463588	23	0.35
	ISIS 463589	19	0.32
	ISIS 463628	19	0.33
	ISIS 463690	19	0.35
	ISIS 463691	18	0.34
	ISIS 463835	19	0.34
	ISIS 463837	18	0.32
	ISIS 464222	21	0.37
	ISIS 464225	20	0.29
	ISIS 464228	22	0.32
	ISIS 464286	22	0.36
	ISIS 464308	18	0.32
	ISIS 464449	16	0.32
	ISIS 464587	23	0.38
	ISIS 464588	23	0.27
	ISIS 464589	24	0.35
	ISIS 464718	22	0.32
	ISIS 479533	28	0.31
	ISIS 479551	21	0.36
	ISIS 479691	29	0.36
	ISIS 479692	25	0.40
	ISIS 479698	30	0.34
	ISIS 479699	30	0.35
	ISIS 479703	28	0.31
	ISIS 479704	31	0.42
	ISIS 479706	26	0.38
	ISIS 479736	22	0.37

Example 12

Tolerability of Antisense Oligonucleotides Targeting Human FGFR4 in CD/IGS Rats

CD/IGS rats are a multipurpose model used for safety and efficacy evaluations. The rats were treated with ISIS antisense oligonucleotides selected from the study described in Examples 10 and 11 and evaluated for changes in the levels of various markers.

Treatment

Ten-twelve week old male CD/IGS rats were maintained on a 12-hour light/dark cycle and fed ad libitum with Purina normal rat chow, diet 5001. Groups of four CD/IGS rats each were injected subcutaneously twice a week for 12 weeks with 30 mg/kg of ISIS 299005, ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, ISIS 463690, ISIS 463691, ISIS 463835, ISIS 463837, or ISIS 464225. A group of 6 rats was injected subcutaneously twice a week for 12 weeks with PBS and served as a control group. Urine and blood samples were collected at various time points. Forty eight hours after the last dose, body weights were taken, rats were euthanized and organs and plasma were harvested for further analysis.

Liver Function

To evaluate the effect of ISIS oligonucleotides on hepatic function, plasma concentrations of various liver function markers were measured on week 8 and week 12 using an automated clinical chemistry analyzer (Hitachi Olympus AU400e, Melville, N.Y.). Plasma concentrations of ALT (alanine transaminase) and AST (aspartate transaminase) were measured and the results are presented in Tables 14 and 15, expressed in IU/L. Plasma levels of bilirubin and BUN were also measured using the same clinical chemistry analyzer and the results are also presented in Tables 14 and 15, expressed as mg/dL. ISIS oligonucleotides that caused adverse changes in the levels of any of the markers of liver function were excluded in further studies.

TABLE 14
ALT, AST, Bilirubin and BUN of CD/IGS rats on week 8
	ALT	AST	Bilirubin	BUN
	(IU/L)	(IU/L)	(mg/dL)	(mg/dL)
	PBS	31	71	0.16	13.6
	ISIS 299005	60	121	0.15	17.4
	ISIS 463588	57	103	0.19	18.6
	ISIS 463589	46	136	0.14	16.8
	ISIS 463690	79	91	0.24	18.1
	ISIS 463691	80	93	0.18	18.8
	ISIS 463835	103	118	0.18	16.6
	ISIS 463837	52	101	0.14	20.7
	ISIS 464225	48	253	0.14	18.9

TABLE 15
ALT, AST, TBIL, and BUN levels in the liver of CD/IGS rats on week 12
	ALT	AST	TBIL	BUN
	(IU/L)	(IU/L)	(mg/dL)	(mg/dL)
	PBS	38	60	0.10	18.2
	ISIS 299005	79	150	0.10	20.0
	ISIS 463588	66	146	0.13	23.3
	ISIS 463589	47	106	0.10	18.3
	ISIS 463690	66	65	0.10	20.3
	ISIS 463691	72	68	0.13	20.3
	ISIS 463835	63	76	0.10	18.8
	ISIS 463837	52	98	0.10	21.8
	ISIS 464225	48	260	0.10	19.0

Example 13

Pharmacokinetic Measurement of Antisense Oligonucleotide in CD1 Mouse Liver

CD1 mice were treated with ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, and ISIS 463690, and the oligonucleotide half-life as well as the elapsed time for oligonucleotide degradation and elimination from the liver was evaluated.

Treatment

Group of ten CD1 mice each were injected subcutaneously twice per week for 2 weeks (4 doses) with 50 mg/kg of ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, or ISIS 463690. Groups of five mice each from each group were sacrificed 3 days and 56 days following the final dose. Livers were harvested for analysis.

Measurement of Oligonucleotide Concentration

The concentration of the full-length oligonucleotide as well as the total oligonucleotide concentration (including the degraded form) was measured. The method used is a modification of previously published methods (Leeds et al., 1996; Geary et al., 1999) which consist of a phenol-chloroform (liquid-liquid) extraction followed by a solid phase extraction. An internal standard (ISIS 355868, a 27-mer 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified phosphorothioate oligonucleotide, GCGTTTGCTCTTCTTCTTGCGTTTTTT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 323) was added prior to extraction. Tissue sample concentrations were calculated using calibration curves, with a lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) of approximately 1.14 μg/g. Half-lives were then calculated using WinNonlin software (PHARSIGHT).

The results are presented in Table 16, expressed as μg/g liver tissue. The half-life of the ISIS oligonucleotides was calculated from these values and is also presented in Table 17. The half-life for each oligonucleotide was considered optimal.

TABLE 16
Oligonucleotide concentration of ISIS oligonucleotides in the liver of
CD1 mice
	ISIS	ISIS	ISIS
	463588	463589	463690
	Day 3	157	168	196
	Day 56	31	17	28

TABLE 17
Half-life of ISIS oligonucleotides in the liver of CD1 mice
ISIS No Days
463588  22.4
463589  15.9
463690  18.7

Example 14

Measurement of Viscosity of ISIS Antisense Oligonucleotides Targeting Human FGFR4

The viscosity of the antisense oligonucleotides selected from in vivo studies described above was measured with the aim of screening out antisense oligonucleotides which have a viscosity more than 40 cP at a concentration of 165-185 mg/mL. Oligonucleotides having a viscosity greater than 40 cP would be too viscous to be administered to any subject.

ISIS oligonucleotides (32-35 mg) were weighed into a glass vial, 120 μL, of water was added and the antisense oligonucleotide was dissolved into solution by heating the vial at 50° C. Part of (75 μL) the pre-heated sample was pipetted to a micro-viscometer (Cambridge). The temperature of the micro-viscometer was set to 25° C. and the viscosity of the sample was measured. Another part (20 μL) of the pre-heated sample was pipetted into 10 mL of water for UV reading at 260 nM at 85° C. (Cary UV instrument). The results are presented in Table 18 and indicate that most of the antisense oligonucleotide solutions are optimal in their viscosity under the criterion stated above.

TABLE 18
Viscosity and concentration of ISIS antisense oligonucleotides targeting
human FGFR4
	ISIS	Viscosity	Concentration
	No.	(cP)	(mg/mL)
	299005	44	174
	463588	21	189
	463589	17	174
	463690	12	178
	463691	9	194
	463835	25	174
	463837	8	181
	464225	21	204

Example 15

Effect of ISIS Antisense Oligonucleotides Targeting Human FGFR4 in Cynomolgus Monkeys

Chinese cynomolgus monkeys were treated with ISIS antisense oligonucleotides selected from studies described in Examples 11-14. Antisense oligonucleotide efficacy and tolerability, as well as their pharmacokinetic profile in the liver and kidney, were evaluated. The human antisense oligonucleotides tested are also cross-reactive with the rhesus genomic sequence GENBANK Accession No NW_—001121000.1 truncated from nucleosides 3094000 to 3109000 (SEQ ID NO: 5). The greater the complementarity between the human oligonucleotide and the rhesus monkey sequence, the more likely the human oligonucleotide can cross-react with the rhesus monkey sequence. The start sites of each oligonucleotide to SEQ ID NO: 5 is presented in Table 19. “Target start site” indicates the 5′-most nucleotide to which the gapmer is targeted in the rhesus monkey gene sequence.

TABLE 19
Antisense oligonucleotides complementary
to SEQ ID NO: 5
Target				SEQ ID
Start Site	Sequence	ISIS No	Motif	NO
4366	GGCACACTCAGCAGGACCCC	299005	5-10-5	7
4365	GCACACTCAGCAGGACCCCC	463588	5-10-5	16
4367	AGGCACACTCAGCAGGACCC	463589	5-10-5	17
5223	GCCAGGCGACTGCCCTCCTT	463690	5-10-5	45
5224	TGCCAGGCGACTGCCCTCCT	463691	5-10-5	46
6420	CGCTCTCCATCACGAGACTC	463835	5-10-5	70
6422	CACGCTCTCCATCACGAGAC	463837	5-10-5	72
12755	CTTCCAGCTTCTCTGGGCTC	464225	5-10-5	138

Treatment

This study was conducted at Charles River Laboratories, Nevada. Prior to the study, the monkeys were acclimated to their designated housing for at least 13 days before the start of dosing. The animals were confirmed to have at least one negative serum antibody test to simian retrovirus (SRV), as well as to other related viruses. Tuberculosis testing was also done. The animals were housed individually in stainless steel cages, as specified in the USDA Animal Welfare Act (9 CFR, Parts 1, 2, and 3). The monkeys were 2.5 to 8 years old and weighed between 2.5 and 4.0 kg. Eight groups of five randomly assigned male cynomolgus monkeys each were injected subcutaneously with ISIS oligonucleotide using a stainless steel dosing needle and syringe of appropriate size into any of six dosing sites, which were used on a rotational basis. These sites were one site each on the lateral portion of each thigh, and four separate sites on the back. The monkeys were dosed once every other day at a dose of 40 mg/kg for the first week (days 1, 3, and 5) as loading doses, and subsequently twice a week at a maintenance dose of 20 mg/kg (40 mg/kg/week) for weeks 2-13, with ISIS 299005, ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, ISIS 463690, ISIS 463691, ISIS 463835, ISIS 463837, or ISIS 464225. A control group of 8 cynomolgus monkeys was injected with PBS subcutaneously once every other day for the first week (days 1, 3, and 5), and subsequently twice a week for weeks 2-13.

During the study period, the monkeys were observed twice daily for a sign of illness or distress. Veterinary care was available throughout the course of the study and animals were examined by the veterinary staff, as warranted for clinical signs or other changes. At the end of the study period, the animals were euthanized under deep anesthesia induced by ketamine and Beuthanasia-D®, followed by exsanguination. All organs were collected within 10 minutes of exsanguinations.

RNA analysis

Total RNA was extracted from liver and kidney tissue for real-time PCR analysis and FGFR4 mRNA levels were measured using human primer probe set RTS3232 and the rhesus primer probe set rhFGFR4_LTS00467 (forward sequence TCATCAACGGCAGCAGCTT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 333; reverse sequence TGAGCTATTGATGTCTGCAGTCTTC, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 334; probe sequence CCGACGGCTTCCCCTATGTGCA, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 335). Results are presented as percent inhibition of FGFR4, relative to PBS control, normalized to Cyclophilin expression levels and/or directly with RIBOGREEN®. As shown in Tables 20 and 21, treatment with ISIS antisense oligonucleotides resulted in significant reduction of FGFR4 mRNA in comparison to the PBS control.

TABLE 20
% Inhibition of FGFR4 mRNA in the cynomolgus monkey liver relative to the PBS control
		RTS3232/	rhFGFR4_LTS00467/	rhFGFR4_LTS00467/
ISIS No	RTS3232/Ribogreen	Cyclophilm	RIBOGREEN	Cyclophilin
299005	42	33	41	32
463588	71	72	68	68
463589	40	38	44	43
463690	64	67	58	61
463691	47	65	41	61
463835	61	51	50	37
463837	39	34	38	29
464225	65	64	61	60

TABLE 21
% Inhibition of FGFR4 mRNA in the cynomolgus monkey kidney relative
to the PBS control
		rhFGFR4_LTS00467/
ISIS No	RTS3232/Ribogreen	RIBOGREEN
299005	60	52
463588	86	85
463589	77	71
463690	76	68
463691	75	63
463835	61	52
463837	54	49
464225	87	83

FGF19 and Leptin Levels

FGF19 has been known to reduce adiposity and improve insulin sensitivity in transgenic mice (Fu, L. et al., Endocrinology. 145: 2594-2603, 2004). FGF19 is also characterized as a high affinity ligand for FGFR4 (Xie, M.-H. et al., Cytokine. 11: 729-735, 1999). Leptin is a hormone which has been found to be present at very high levels in obese individuals compared to normal-weight individuals (Considine, R. V. et al., N. Engl. J. Med. 334: 292-295, 1996).

FGF19 mRNA levels were measured in ileum tissue samples by RT-PCR analysis, using the primer probe set rhFGF19_LTS00681 (forward sequence CCCCATGTGGGAATTGATCT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 336; reverse sequence CATGCCTGCTTCAGTCAGTTCT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 337; probe sequence TTTGCCCTTCCCAAACCCCTCCA, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 338). The results are presented in Table 22, expressed as percent expression over the PBS control. The data indicates that treatment with any of the ISIS oligonucleotides enhanced the expression of FGF19.

The plasma samples of monkeys treated with ISIS 299005, ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, and ISIS 463690 were assessed for FGF19 levels. The plasma samples of monkeys treated with ISIS 463588 and ISIS 463690 were assessed for leptin levels. Plasma levels of FGF19 were measured pre-dose and on days 23, 65 and 89 using an ELISA assay kit (R&D Systems). Plasma levels of leptin measured pre-dose and on days 58 and 93 using an ELISA assay kit (Alpco). Results are presented in Tables 23 and 24. The data indicates that treatment with any of the ISIS oligonucleotides increased FGF19 plasma levels and decreases leptin levels. In particular, treatment with ISIS 463588 caused the highest increase in FGF19 plasma levels compared to the PBS control as well as to the other experimental plasma samples. Treatment with ISIS 463588 caused the most significant decrease in leptin levels compared to the PBS control.

TABLE 22
Ileum FGF19 mRNA levels in the cynomolgus monkey (% expression
over the PBS control)
        %
ISIS No expression
299005  688
463588  715
463589  545
463690  1032
463691  477
463835  445
463837  384
464225  370

TABLE 23
Plasma FGF19 levels in the cynomolgus monkey (pg/ml)
	Pre-
	dose	Day 23	Day 65	Day 89
	PBS	106	79	104	84
	ISIS 299005	125	110	191	202
	ISIS 463588	192	146	309	401
	ISIS 463589	111	117	177	151
	ISIS 463690	184	154	287	266

TABLE 24
Plasma leptin levels in the cynomolgus monkey (ng/ml)
	Pre-
	dose	Day 58	Day 93
	PBS	0.21	0.60	0.53
	ISIS 463588	0.15	0.23	0.26
	ISIS 463690	0.27	0.32	0.36

Tolerability Studies

Liver Function

To evaluate the effect of ISIS oligonucleotides on hepatic function, blood samples were collected from all the study groups. The blood samples were collected via femoral venipuncture on day 58, 48 hrs post-dosing and processed for serum. Concentrations of various metabolites were measured using an automated clinical chemistry analyzer (Hitachi Olympus AU400e, Melville, N.Y.). Plasma concentrations of ALT and AST were measured and the results are presented in Table 25, expressed in IU/L. Bilirubin is also a liver function marker, was similarly measured and is presented in Table 25, expressed in mg/dL. The results indicate that treatment with ISIS 463588, as well as several other ISIS oligonucleotides, was well tolerated in terms of the liver function of the monkeys.

TABLE 25
ALT, AST, and Bilirubin in cynomolgus
monkey plasma (on day 58)
	ALT	AST	Bilirubin
	(IU/L)	(IU/L)	(mg/dL)
	PBS	47.4	40.3	0.2
	ISIS 299005	45.2	37.4	0.2
	ISIS 463588	77.6	73.2	0.1
	ISIS 463589	33.8	29.8	0.2
	ISIS 463690	103.6	47.6	0.2
	ISIS 463691	76.2	72.4	1.8
	ISIS 463835	116.2	42.0	0.1
	ISIS 463837	121.0	43.2	0.1
	ISIS 464225	81.4	40.8	0.1

Kidney Function

To evaluate the effect of ISIS oligonucleotides on kidney function, blood samples were collected from all the study groups. The blood samples were collected via femoral venipuncture on day 58, 48 hrs post-dosing and processed for serum. Concentrations of BUN and creatinine were measured using an automated clinical chemistry analyzer (Hitachi Olympus AU400e, Melville, N.Y.). Results are presented in Table 26, expressed in mg/dL.

The results indicate that most of the ISIS oligonucleotides did not have any adverse effects on the kidney function. Specifically, treatment with ISIS 463588 was well tolerated in terms of the kidney function of the monkeys.

TABLE 26
Plasma BUN and creatinine levels (mg/dL)
in cynomolgus monkeys on day 58
	BUN	Creatinine
	PBS	28.6	0.8
	ISIS 299005	24.3	0.7
	ISIS 463588	23.2	0.7
	ISIS 463589	28.7	0.8
	ISIS 463690	22.7	0.7
	ISIS 463691	16.8	0.5
	ISIS 463835	32.2	0.8
	ISIS 463837	26.7	0.7
	ISIS 464225	25.8	0.6

Analysis of Markers of Inflammation

To evaluate the effect of ISIS oligonucleotides on factors involved in inflammation, blood was collected from all available animals for C-reactive protein (CRP) and complement C3 analysis, as well as for measurement of cytokine and chemokine levels. The blood samples were collected via femoral venipuncture on day 93, 48 hrs post-dosing and processed for separately for serum and plasma. Serum CRP and plasma complement C3 was measured using an automated clinical chemistry analyzer (Hitachi Olympus AU400e, Melville, N.Y.). The data is presented in Tables 27 and 28, expressed in mg/dL.

For cytokine level analyses, blood (1 mL each) was collected and then centrifuged 3,000 rpm for 10 min at 2-8° C. Plasma samples of mice treated with ISIS 463588, ISIS 463589, and ISIS 463690 were sent to Aushon Biosystems Inc. (Billerica, Mass.) for measurement of chemokine and cytokine levels. Levels of IL-6, MIP-1α, IL-8, MIP-1β, MCP-1, IL-1β, and RANTES were measured using the respective cross-reacting human antibodies and IFN-γ and IL-1β were measured using the respective primate antibodies. Measurements were taken pre-dose and on day 93. The results are presented in Tables 29-36.

The data indicate that most of the ISIS oligonucleotides were not pro-inflammatory. Specifically, treatment with ISIS 463588 was well tolerated in terms of being non-pro-inflammatory in the monkeys since there were no changes in CRP, a marker of inflammation.

TABLE 27
CRP (mg/dL) in cynomolgus monkeys
	Pre-dose	Day 30	Day 58	Day 93
	PBS	2.2	3.1	2.5	4.1
	ISIS 299005	1.0	1.5	1.2	1.2
	ISIS 463588	2.9	5.2	3.7	3.8
	ISIS 463589	1.8	1.9	2.2	2.4
	ISIS 463690	2.2	3.1	2.1	3.6
	ISIS 463691	6.3	5.2	10.3	2.6
	ISIS 463835	9.7	16.2	4.7	5.7
	ISIS 463837	2.5	11.4	2.8	2.9
	ISIS 464225	2.5	8.1	6.9	5.2

TABLE 28
Complement C3 (mg/dL) in cynomolgus monkeys
	Pre-dose	Day 30	Day 58	Day 93
	PBS	114.3	109.1	112.5	113.3
	ISIS 299005	108.3	92.1	99.6	91.4
	ISIS 463588	106.7	91.9	94.9	95.7
	ISIS 463589	116.3	102.0	105.1	100.9
	ISIS 463690	113.3	89.4	85.6	78.7
	ISIS 463691	123.5	89.2	70.6	97.6
	ISIS 463835	105.5	66.2	66.5	69.0
	ISIS 463837	107.1	91.1	88.7	86.5
	ISIS 464225	104.7	91.9	92.7	80.1

TABLE 29
IL-6 (pg/mL) in cynomolgus monkeys
	Pre-dose	Day 93
	PBS	1.0	1.0
	ISIS 463588	0.4	0.9
	ISIS 463589	0.5	2.8
	ISIS 463690	1.2	10.2

TABLE 30
IL-8 (pg/mL) in cynomolgus monkeys
	Pre-dose	Day 93
	PBS	544	482
	ISIS 463588	1255	1159
	ISIS 463589	424	636
	ISIS 463690	719	1344

TABLE 31
MIP-1α (pg/mL) in cynomolgus monkeys
	Pre-dose	Day 93
	PBS	7.6	8.9
	ISIS 463588	8.9	10.8
	ISIS 463589	7.9	11.2
	ISIS 463690	13.8	18.9

TABLE 32
MIP-1β (pg/mL) in cynomolgus monkeys
	Pre-dose	Day 93
	PBS	249	229
	ISIS 463588	219	211
	ISIS 463589	175	196
	ISIS 463690	362	478

TABLE 33
MCP-1 (pg/mL) in cynomolgus monkeys
	Pre-dose	Day 93
	PBS	200	275
	ISIS 463588	420	496
	ISIS 463589	343	363
	ISIS 463690	441	709

TABLE 34
IFN-γ (pg/mL) in cynomolgus monkeys
	Pre-dose	Day 93
	PBS	22.1	25.9
	ISIS 463588	1.6	1.5
	ISIS 463589	10.8	12.3
	ISIS 463690	20.8	17.4

TABLE 35
IL-1β (pg/mL) in cynomolgus monkeys
	Pre-dose	Day 93
	PBS	0.09	0.28
	ISIS 463588	0.07	0.08
	ISIS 463589	0.13	0.06
	ISIS 463690	0.20	0.36

TABLE 36
RANTES (pg/mL) in cynomolgus monkeys
	Pre-dose	Day 93
	PBS	43339	48967
	ISIS 463588	45962	51326
	ISIS 463589	38382	30985
	ISIS 463690	37330	29209

Hematology

To evaluate any effect of ISIS oligonucleotides in cynomolgus monkeys on hematologic parameters, approximately 1.3 mL of blood was collected on day 93 from each of the available study animals in tubes containing K₂-EDTA. Samples were analyzed for red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cells (WBC) count, individual white blood cell counts, such as that of monocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, as well as for platelet count, hemoglobin content and hematocrit, using an ADVIA120 hematology analyzer (Bayer, USA). The data is presented in Tables 37 and 38.

The data indicate that most of the ISIS oligonucleotides did not have any adverse effects on the any hematologic parameters. Specifically, treatment with ISIS 463588 was well tolerated in terms of the hematologic parameters of the monkeys.

TABLE 37
Blood cells in cynomolgus monkeys
	RBC	Platelets	WBC	Neutro-	Lympho-	Mono-
	(×106/	(×103/	(×103/	phils	cytes	cytes
	μL)	μL)	μL)	(/μL)	(/μL)	(/μL)
PBS	6.1	426	13.8	3244	9637	483
ISIS 299005	6.2	348	13.8	3395	9378	549
ISIS 463588	6.4	331	11.7	3081	7741	387
ISIS 463589	5.7	360	12.3	3590	8037	413
ISIS 463690	6.1	430	13.1	2592	9451	571
ISIS 463691	5.3	494	17.5	7511	8534	1144
ISIS 463835	5.5	558	12.7	3129	8374	664
ISIS 463837	5.8	480	13.3	3145	9025	566
ISIS 464225	5.9	429	13.6	2994	9349	762

TABLE 38
Hematologic parameters in cynomolgus monkeys
	Hemoglobin	HCT
	(g/dL)	(%)
	PBS	14.2	45.5
	ISIS 299005	13.7	44.0
	ISIS 463588	13.9	45.4
	ISIS 463589	13.3	41.9
	ISIS 463690	13.8	44.7
	ISIS 463691	12.7	40.8
	ISIS 463835	12.3	40.0
	ISIS 463837	12.8	41.7
	ISIS 464225	13.1	42.8

Pharmacokinetic Studies

Measurement of Oligonucleotide Concentration

The concentration of the full-length oligonucleotide as well as the total oligonucleotide concentration (including the degraded form) was measured. The method used is a modification of previously published methods (Leeds et al., 1996; Geary et al., 1999) which consist of a phenol-chloroform (liquid-liquid) extraction followed by a solid phase extraction. An internal standard (ISIS 355868, a 27-mer 2′-O-methoxyethyl modified phosphorothioate oligonucleotide, GCGTTTGCTCTTCTTCTTGCGTTTTTT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 323) was added prior to extraction. Tissue sample concentrations were calculated using calibration curves, with a lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) of approximately 1.14 μg/g. The results are presented in Table 39, expressed as μg/g tissue. The ratio of the concentrations in the kidney versus the liver was calculated and presented in Table 39. Treatment with ISIS oligonucleotides did not result in any abnormality in the ratio.

TABLE 39
Full-length oligonucleotide concentration (μg/g)
in the liver and kidney of cynomolgus monkey
	ISIS No	Kidney	Liver	Kidney/Liver
	463588	1717	1033	1.7
	463589	1663	1227	1.4
	463690	1395	1226	1.1

Overall, the results of the study indicate that ISIS 463588 is a potent and tolerable antisense oligonucleotide for treatment of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, insulin resistance, and insulin deficiency.

Example 16

In Vivo Effect of Antisense Inhibition of Murine FGFR4 in Diet-Induced Obesity (DIO) Mice with Caloric Restriction

DIO mice are C57BL/6 mice fed a high fat diet starting from 6 weeks of age and are a standard model used for assays related to studying the effect of therapeutic agents on lowering adiposity and improving insulin sensitivity. The antisense oligonucleotide, ISIS 393250, a 5-10-5 MOE gapmer, having a sequence of 5′-GCCACATTTCCTTCCAGCTG-3 (SEQ ID NO: 324), and with a target start site of 337 on murine FGFR4 mRNA (GENBANK Accession No. BC033313.1 (SEQ ID NO: 6) was used in this assay. The effect of ISIS 393250 on a DIO model under caloric restriction was evaluated.

Treatment

Male 6 week-old C57BL/6 mice (Jackson Laboratories) were fed with 58 kcal % high-fat diet (Research diet D12330) ad lib for 4 months to induce obesity. The mice were divided into 4 groups based on body weight and body fat content. The first group of mice was treated with 25 mg/kg ISIS 393250 administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 6 weeks. The second group of mice was treated with 25 mg/kg control oligonucleotide, ISIS 141923 (CCTTCCCTGAAGGTTCCTCC (SEQ ID NO: 325), 5-10-5 MOE gapmer with no known murine target), administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 6 weeks. Two control groups of mice were treated with PBS administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 6 weeks. After two weeks of treatment, the oligonucleotide-treated mice and one of the PBS control group mice were subjected to caloric restriction by providing 95% of the amount of food consumed daily by the FGFR4 ASO-treated mice during the first two weeks of treatment. The second PBS control group continued to be fed ad libitum with the same amount of food as in the first two weeks of treatment.

Weekly body weights were measured and body compositions were monitored at different time point with an Echo MRI Body Composition Analyzer. The mice were euthanized after 6 weeks of treatment.

RNA Analysis

RNA was extracted from the liver for RT-PCR analysis of murine FGFR4 expression. The primer probe set mFGFR4_LTS00702 (forward sequence CCCTGAGGCCAGATACACAGATAT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 339; reverse sequence ACGGATGACTTGCCGATGATA, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 340; probe sequence CTCACTGGTTCTGCTTGTGCTCCTGCT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 341) was used for analysis. The results indicated that treatment with ISIS 393250 reduced murine FGFR4 levels by 76%.

Body Weight and Body Composition Analysis

Weekly body weights were measured and are presented in Table 40. Body fat content data is presented in Table 41, expressed as percent of the corresponding body weight. Lean body mass is presented in Table 42, expressed in grams. White adipose tissue weight was measured after euthanizing the mice and is presented in Table 43, expressed in grams. The data indicates calorie restriction significantly lowered body weight and total body fat content. Treatment with ISIS 393250 further lowered both body weight and fat content, but had no effect on body lean mass. Treatment with ISIS 141923 had no effect. Hence, antisense inhibition of FGFR4 expression has a beneficial effect on body weight and body fat content in subjects suffering from obesity.

TABLE 40
Weekly body weights (g)
	Calorie-
	restrict-	Pre-	Week	Week	Week	Week	Week	Week
	ed	dose	1	2	3	4	5	6
PBS	No	51.7	51.1	52.1	52.6	53.1	50.6	53.4
PBS	Yes	50.3	50.4	51.1	50.0	47.6	46.0	45.4
ISIS 141923	Yes	49.5	50.1	50.9	49.8	48.1	46.3	45.2
ISIS 393250	Yes	50.5	50.9	50.9	48.9	46.7	44.4	42.1

TABLE 41
Body fat content (% body weight)
	Calorie-
	restricted	Pre-dose	Week 2	Week 4	Week 6
PBS	No	39.5	39.8	40	40
PBS	Yes	38.7	40.2	39.1	38.3
ISIS 141923	Yes	38.9	39.1	38.1	37.7
ISIS 393250	Yes	39.4	38.6	35.3	31.3

TABLE 42
Lean body mass (g)
	Calorie-
	restricted	Pre-dose	Week 2	Week 4	Week 6
PBS	No	27.8	28.2	28.2	28.3
PBS	Yes	27.3	27.5	25.7	24.5
ISIS 141923	Yes	26.7	27.3	26	24.9
ISIS 393250	Yes	27.1	27.8	25.9	24.8

TABLE 43
White adipose tissue weight (g)
	Calorie-
	restricted	Epididymal	Peri-renal
	PBS	No	2.5	1.1
	PBS	Yes	2.2	0.9
	ISIS 141923	Yes	2.2	0.9
	ISIS 393250	Yes	1.8	0.7

Metabolic Rate and Locomotor Activity Analysis

The metabolic rate was assessed by measuring the oxygen consumption and heat production of the mice. Both parameters were measured with an indirect calorimetry system (Oxymax system, Columbus Instruments). Locomotor activity was also assessed with the same instrument. Metabolic rate and locomotor activity was assessed both in darkness, when the mice are typically more active, and in light. The results are presented in Tables 44-46. The results indicate that calorie restriction reduced whole body oxygen consumption. Treatment with ISIS 393250 prevented this decrease in oxygen consumption without affecting locomotor activity. Hence, antisense inhibition of FGFR4 expression in obese subjects with a calorie-restricted diet would be beneficial as it would prevent any decline in metabolic rate in the subject.

TABLE 44
O2 consumption (mL/kg lean tissue/hr)
	Calorie-
	restricted	dark	light
	PBS	No	4275	3327
	PBS	Yes	4085	3259
	ISIS 141923	Yes	4094	3258
	ISIS 393250	Yes	4268	3359

TABLE 45
Heat production (kcal/kg lean tissue/hr)
	Calorie-
	restricted	dark	light
	PBS	No	19.8	15
	PBS	Yes	19.1	15.1
	ISIS 141923	Yes	19.1	15.1
	ISIS 393250	Yes	19.7	15.7

TABLE 46
Locomotor activity (events/min)
	Calorie-
	restricted	dark	light
	PBS	No	16.4	1.9
	PBS	Yes	21.9	3.1
	ISIS 141923	Yes	16.1	2.5
	ISIS 393250	Yes	16.2	3

Example 17

In Vivo Effect of Antisense Inhibition of Murine FGFR4 in Diet-Induced Obesity (DIO) Mice with Caloric Restriction

The effect of ISIS 446259 (TCCATTTCCTCAGAGGCCTC (SEQ ID NO: 326), 5-10-5 MOE gapmer, with a target start site of 407 on GENBANK Accession No. BC033313.1 (SEQ ID NO: 6)) on DIO mice under caloric restriction was evaluated.

Treatment

Male 6 week-old C57BL/6 mice (Jackson Laboratories) were fed with 58 kcal % high-fat diet Research diet D12330) ad lib for 3.5 months to induce obesity. The mice were divided into 4 groups based on body weight and body fat content. The first group of mice was treated with 25 mg/kg ISIS 446259 administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 8 weeks. The second group of mice was treated with 25 mg/kg control oligonucleotide, ISIS 141923 administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 8 weeks. Two control groups of mice were treated with PBS administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 8 weeks. After two weeks of treatment, the oligonucleotide-treated mice and one of the PBS control group mice were subjected to caloric restriction by providing 90% of the amount of food consumed daily by the FGFR4 ASO-treated mice during the first two weeks of treatment. The second PBS control group continued to be fed ad libitum with the same amount of food as in the first two weeks of treatment.

Weekly body weights were measured and body compositions were monitored at different time point with an Echo MRI Body Composition Analyzer. The mice were euthanized after 8 weeks of treatment.

RNA Analysis

RNA was extracted from the liver for RT-PCR analysis of murine FGFR4 expression. The primer probe set mFGFR4 LTS00702 was used to analyze mRNA levels. The results indicated that treatment with ISIS 446259 reduced murine FGFR4 levels by 83%.

Body Weight and Body Composition Analysis

Weekly body weights were measured and are presented in Table 47. Body fat content data is presented in Table 48, expressed as percent of the corresponding body weight. Lean body mass was presented in Table 49, expressed in grams. The data indicates calorie restriction significantly lowered body weight and total body fat content. Treatment with ISIS 446259 further lowered both body weight and fat content, but had no effect on body lean mass. Treatment with ISIS 141923 had no further effect. Hence, antisense inhibition of FGFR4 expression has a beneficial effect on body weight and body fat content in subjects suffering from obesity in addition to effects seen by caloric restriction alone.

TABLE 47
Weekly body weights (g)
	Calorie-	Week	Week	Week	Week	Week
	restricted	0	2	4	6	8
PBS	No	48.7	49.9	51	53.4	52.5
PBS	Yes	49.7	50.7	46.9	46.9	46.2
ISIS 141923	Yes	49.6	50.5	46.9	46.1	44.5
ISIS 446259	Yes	49.4	49.4	45.2	43.8	39.7

TABLE 48
Body fat content (% body weight)
	Calorie-
	restricted	Week 0	Week 2	Week 5	Week 8
PBS	No	41	43	43	42
PBS	Yes	41	43	41	39
ISIS 141923	Yes	40	40	37	35
ISIS 446259	Yes	41	41	35	30

TABLE 49
Lean body mass (g)
	Calorie-
	restricted	Week 0	Week 2	Week 5	Week 8
PBS	No	26	24	26	27
PBS	Yes	26	25	25	25
ISIS 141923	Yes	27	26	25	26
ISIS 446259	Yes	26	25	25	25

Plasma Lipid Analysis

To evaluate the effect of ISIS oligonucleotides on cholesterol and triglyceride metabolism, plasma levels of each were measured at the end of the treatment period. The mice were euthanized and blood was collected via cardiac puncture. The lipid levels were measured using an automated clinical chemistry analyzer (Hitachi Olympus AU400e, Melville, N.Y.). Results are presented in Table 50, expressed as mg/dL. The results indicate that treatment with ISIS 446259 reduced both cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the mice. Therefore, antisense inhibition of FGFR4 had a beneficial effect on the lipid profile and may be used to reduce adiposity in obese subjects.

TABLE 50
Cholesterol and lipid levels (mg/dL)
	Calorie-
	restricted	Cholesterol	Triglycerides
	PBS	No	270	137
	PBS	Yes	240	128
	ISIS 141923	Yes	222	113
	ISIS 446259	Yes	181	84

Example 18

In Vivo Effect of Antisense Inhibition of Murine FGFR4 on FGF15 Levels in DIO Mice

The effect of ISIS 393250 and ISIS 446259 on FGF15 levels in DIO mice was evaluated.

Treatment

Male 6 week-old C57BL/6 mice (Jackson Laboratories) were fed with 58 kcal % high-fat diet Research diet D12330) ad lib for 3.5 months to induce obesity. A group of C57BL/6 mice were fed normal Purina mouse chow and served as the naïve control. The DIO mice were divided into groups based on body weight and body fat content. The first group of DIO mice was treated with 25 mg/kg ISIS 393250 administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 4 weeks. The second group of DIO mice was treated with 25 mg/kg ISIS 446259 administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 4 weeks. The third group of DIO mice was treated with 25 mg/kg control oligonucleotide, ISIS 141923 administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 4 weeks. A control group of DIO mice was treated with PBS administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 4 weeks. The mice were euthanized after 4 weeks of treatment.

FGF15 Levels

FGF15 is the rodent equivalent of FGF19 (Wright, T. J. et al., Dev. Biol. 269: 264-275, 2004), and is therefore important for the reduction of adiposity and improvement of insulin sensitivity in mice.

RNA was extracted from liver and ileum. Liver RNA was analyzed by RT-PCR analysis for FGFR4 mRNA levels using primer probe set mFGFR4_LTS00702. Ileum RNA was analyzed by RT-PCR analysis for FGF15 levels using primer probe set mFgf15_LTS00635 (forward sequence GACCAAAACGAACGAAATTTGTT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 342; reverse sequence ACGTCCTTGATGGCAATCG, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 343; probe sequence AATTCCGCGCGGTCGCTCTG, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 344). The results are presented in Table 51 and demonstrate that treatment with either antisense oligonucleotide significantly decreases FGFR4 mRNA levels and also significantly enhances FGF15 expression levels.

Plasma samples of the mice group were also analyzed at weeks 2 and 4 for FGF15 protein levels with ELISA using an anti-FGF15 antibody (Santa Cruz Biotechnology Inc). The results are presented in Table 52 and demonstrate that antisense inhibition of FGFR4 results in enhanced plasma levels of FGF15.

TABLE 51
FGFR4 and FGF15 mRNA levels relative to control
		Liver	Ileum
		FGFR4 (%	FGF15 (%
	ISIS No	inhibition)	expression)
	141923	14	92
	393250	96	1117
	446259	94	707
	C57BL/6 control	0	25

TABLE 52
FGF15 plasma levels at week 2 and 4 (ng/ml)
	Week 2	Week 4
	PBS	0.13	0.13
	ISIS 141923	0.12	0.14
	ISIS 393250	0.69	0.96
	ISIS 446259	0.18	0.25
	C57BL/6 control	0.1	0.12

Example 19

In Vivo Effect of Antisense Inhibition of Murine FGFR4 on FGF15 Levels in C57BL/6 Mice

The effect of ISIS 393250 on FGF15 levels in C57BL/6 mice was evaluated.

Treatment

Male 6 week-old C57BL/6 mice (Jackson Laboratories) were fed normal Purina mouse chow. The mice were randomly divided into 3 groups. The first group of mice was treated with 50 mg/kg ISIS 393250 administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 5.5 weeks. The second group of mice was treated with 50 mg/kg control oligonucleotide, ISIS 141923 administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 5.5 weeks. A control group of mice was treated with PBS administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 5.5 weeks.

FGFR4 Levels

RNA was extracted from liver and RNA was analyzed by RT-PCR analysis for FGFR4 mRNA levels using primer probe set mFGFR4_LTS00702. The results are presented in Table 53 and demonstrate that treatment with ISIS 393250 significantly decreases FGFR4 mRNA levels

TABLE 53
FGFR4 mRNA inhibition levels (%)
ISIS No %
141923  0
393250  79

FGF15 Levels

Plasma samples of the mice group were analyzed for FGF15 protein levels using with ELISA using an anti-FGF15 antibody (Santa Cruz Biotechnology Inc). The results are presented in Table 54 and demonstrate that antisense inhibition of FGFR4 results in enhanced plasma levels of FGF15.

TABLE 54
FGF15 plasma levels at day 16
ng/mL
PBS         0.07
ISIS 141923 0.08
ISIS 393250 0.28

Example 20

In Vivo Effect of Antisense Inhibition of Murine FGFR4 on FGF15 Levels in Ob/Ob Mice

Leptin is a hormone produced by fat that regulates appetite. Deficiency of this hormone in both humans and in non-human animals, leads to obesity. ob/ob mice have a mutation in the leptin gene which results in obesity and hyperglycemia. As such, these mice are a useful model for the investigation of obesity and diabetes and related conditions provided herein. These mice models are also useful for testing compounds, compositions and methods designed to treat, prevent or ameliorate such conditions.

In accordance with the present invention, the effects of antisense inhibition of FGFR4 were investigated in the ob/ob mouse model of obesity. Male 12 week old ob/ob (C57Bl/6J-Lep^ob/Lep^ob) mice were purchased from Jackson Laboratories (Bar Harbor, Me.) and used for the current study.

Treatment

The mice were divided into groups based on body weight and body fat content. The first group of mice was treated with 25 mg/kg ISIS 393250 administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 14 weeks. The second group of mice was treated with 25 mg/kg control oligonucleotide, ISIS 141923 administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 14 weeks. A control group of mice was treated with PBS administered subcutaneously twice weekly for 14 weeks.

FGFR4 Levels

RNA was extracted from liver and RNA was analyzed by RT-PCR analysis for FGFR4 mRNA levels using primer probe set mFGFR4_LTS00702. The results are presented in Table 55 and demonstrate that treatment with ISIS 393250 significantly decreases FGFR4 mRNA levels

TABLE 55
FGFR4 mRNA inhibition levels (%)
ISIS No %
141923  0
393250  89

FGF15 Levels

Plasma samples of the mice group were analyzed for FGF15 protein levels using with ELISA using an anti-FGF15 antibody (Santa Cruz Biotechnology Inc). The results are presented in Table 56 and demonstrate that antisense inhibition of FGFR4 results in enhanced plasma levels of FGF15.

TABLE 56
FGF15 plasma levels at week 4 and 8 (ng/mL)
	Week 4	Week 8
	PBS	0.5	1.2
	ISIS 141923	0.8	0.5
	ISIS 393250	4.2	4.2

Example 21

Effect of Antisense Inhibition of Murine FGFR4 in Monkey Primary Hepatocytes

The effect of antisense inhibition of FGFR4 with ISIS 299004 on fatty acid oxidation in monkey hepatocytes was evaluated. AICAR was used as a positive control.

Treatment

Primary hepatocytes purchased from APL/Lovelace In Vitro Enterprises and cultured in William E medium. The cells were seeded at a density of 1 million cells per 25 ml flask. After 4-5 hrs of culture, the cells were treated with 30 nM of ISIS 299004 or 1000 μM AICAR for 18 hrs. A control set of cells was treated with PBS. FGFR4 levels were measured using the primer probe set cynoFGFR4_MGB_LTS00689 (forward sequence GCACCAGGGATGAGCTTGAC, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 348; reverse sequence CCAAGTCTCCCACTTTCCAGTT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 349; probe sequence AAGAGCCTGACTCCAGT, designated herein as SEQ ID NO: 350). Treatment with ISIS 299004 reduced FGFR4 levels by 83%.

For evaluation of fatty acid oxidation, the cells were placed in low glucose media containing ^1-14cOleic acid and BSA, and the culture flasks were capped with a rubber stopper containing a hanging reservoir bucket. The cells were then incubated at 37° C. under 5% CO₂ for 1.5 hrs. Following incubation, 200 μl of 1M hyamine hydroxide (a ¹⁴CO₂ trapping agent) was added to the reservoir bucket and 1 ml of 10% perchloric acid solution was added to the cells. The flasks were transferred to a 37° C. shaking incubator for 40 min. Upon completion of the incubation, the hanging bucket reservoir containing the hyamine hydroxide was separated from the flask and placed in scintillation fluid overnight, and read in the scintillation counter the next day. Bradford-based protein measurements were conducted on an equal number of primary monkey hepatocytes, by using the DC™ Biorad protein assay kit (Bearden, J. Biochem. Biophys. Acta. 533: 525. 1978). The values obtained from the protein readout was used for normalization of the CO₂ production counted by the scintillation counter. The results are presented in Table 57 and indicate that antisense inhibition of FGFR4 increased fatty acid oxidation in primary hepatocytes. Five independent fatty acid oxidation experiments were conducted, which demonstrated a similar trend on the results.

TABLE 57
CO2 production (% of the control)
CO2
ISIS 141923 +2
ISIS 299004 +48
AICAR       +44

Claims

1. A compound comprising a modified oligonucleotide consisting of 12 to 30 linked nucleosides, wherein the linked nucleosides comprise at least 8 contiguous nucleobases of a sequence recited in SEQ ID NOs: 17, 45, 46, 70, 72, or 138.

2-7. (canceled)

8. The compound of claim 1 wherein the modified oligonucleotide is a single-stranded oligonucleotide.

9. (canceled)

10. The compound of claim 1, wherein the nucleobase sequence of the modified oligonucleotide is at least 95% complementary to SEQ ID NO 1 or 2.

11. The compound of claim 1, wherein the nucleobase sequence of the modified oligonucleotide is 100% complementary to SEQ ID NO 1 or 2.

12. The compound of claim 1 wherein at least one internucleoside linkage is a modified internucleoside linkage.

13. The compound of claim 12, wherein each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate internucleoside linkage.

14. The compound of claim 1, wherein at least one nucleoside of the modified oligonucleotide comprises a modified sugar.

15. The compound of claim 14, wherein the at least one modified sugar is a bicyclic sugar.

16. The compound of claim 15, wherein each of the at least one bicyclic sugar comprises a 4′-CH2-N(R)—O-2′ bridge wherein R is, independently, H, C1-C12 alkyl, or a protecting group.

17. The compound of claim 15, wherein each of the at least one bicyclic sugar comprises a 4′-CH(CH3)-O-2′ bridge.

18. The compound of claim 14, wherein at least one modified sugar comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl group.

19. (canceled)

20. (canceled)

21. The compound of claim 1, wherein at least one nucleoside comprises a modified nucleobase.

22. The compound of claim 21, wherein the modified nucleobase is a 5-methylcytosine.

23. The compound of claim 1, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises:

a gap segment consisting of linked deoxynucleosides;

a 5′ wing segment consisting of linked nucleosides; and

a 3′ wing segment consisting of linked nucleosides;

wherein the gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment and wherein each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a modified sugar.

24. The compound of claim 23, wherein the modified oligonucleotide comprises:

a gap segment consisting of ten linked deoxynucleosides;

a 5′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides; and

a 3′ wing segment consisting of five linked nucleosides;

wherein the gap segment is positioned between the 5′ wing segment and the 3′ wing segment, wherein each nucleoside of each wing segment comprises a 2′-O-methoxyethyl sugar; and wherein each internucleoside linkage is a phosphorothioate linkage.

25. (canceled)

26. (canceled)

27. The compound of claim 1, wherein the modified oligonucleotide consists of 20 linked nucleosides.

28. A composition comprising the compound of claim 1 or salt thereof and at least one of a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent.

29-46. (canceled)

47. A method for reducing or preventing a metabolic disease comprising administering to a human a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of claim 1, thereby reducing or preventing a metabolic disease.

48. The method of claim 47, wherein the metabolic disease is obesity.

49. The method of claim 47, comprising co-administering the compound or composition and a second agent.

50-91. (canceled)