A method of decreasing the expression of LIM kinase 1 in a cancer cell comprising; providing an oligonucleotide consisting of the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1; providing a cancer cell comprising an mRNA encoding LIM kinase 1; and introducing the oligonucleotide into the cancer cell, wherein the oligonucleotide decreases the expression of LIM kinase 1 in the cancer cell. The method also provides compositions of an antisense RNA LIM kinase 1 that can be administered to an individual for the purpose of inhibiting a protein kinase pathway and which further comprises methods for treating and monitoring the proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells. A kit may be used in the detection and treatment of cancer.