oligonucleotide
uh-LIG-oh-NOO-klee-uh-tide
Definition
A short chain of synthetic DNA or RNA molecules that can bind to specific genetic sequences to alter gene expression, used here as a therapeutic approach to treat epilepsy.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'oligos' meaning 'few' or 'little,' combined with 'nucleotide,' the basic structural unit of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA. It refers to the short, synthetic nature of these molecular chains.
In the news
The article mentions an 'antisense oligonucleotide' as an alternative drug development approach being tested by another company to treat KCNT1-related epilepsy. It highlights the competitive landscape Jazz Pharmaceuticals is entering as it expands its own portfolio.
Jazz Pharma Expands Again in Epilepsy With $850M Actio Bio Acquisition
Read the full article ↗MedCity News