Compositions and methods for down modulating target gene expression with RNA interference, as well as methods for administering said compositions are disclosed. The method comprises administering a first strand to a cell, incubating the cell for a time period suitable for uptake of the first oligo prior to administering a second strand, wherein the first strand and said second strand form an intracellular duplex which is effective to catalyze degradation of gene target mRNA or inhibit translation of said mRNA.
