June 6, 2005

Genetically modified chickens contribute to fight against cancer
 

According to scientists from the Roslin Institute, Scotland, there is a way of concentrating the protein in the egg whites of genetically modified (GM) hens in order to produce a type of antibody designed to treat cancer.

Refining the process this way meant that a significantly higher anti-cancer drug output could be achieved. The antibody involved partially replaces one of a number of proteins that make up the egg white.

The protein produced in the GM chickens' egg whites was a type of antibody designed to treat malignant skin cancer.

Previous attempts to manufacture drugs in the eggs of GM chickens have yielded levels too small for practical use or commercial viability. However, the breakthrough of the Scottish scientists could change that. 

According to Charles Rice, President and CEO of Viragen Inc, the biopharmaceutical drug market is projected to generate in excess of US$50 billion in sales by 2010, and antibodies alone are expected to make up about US$17 billion of that market.