HAVANA, 25 June 2006 - In a revolutionary new move, Cuban scientists have developed the first 'monoclonal antibody' from transgenic plants - dubbed a "plantibody" - used in making a human vaccine.
The antibody, CB-Hep.1, is from an 'ancestor' of the tobacco plant.
It replaces an antibody obtained from mice in Cuba's manufacturing of the hepatitis B vaccine, researchers told reporters in Havana Friday.
Carlos Borroto, deputy director at Cuba's Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Center (CIGB), said the plantibody had won approval from Cuba's medication quality control agency, part of the public health ministry.
CB-Hep.1 is the first plantibody authorised anywhere in the world for manufacturing a vaccine. It is just the second approved for human use, after one approved in the United States for treating tooth decay.
The plantibody won approval on April 11 and is already being used in manufacturing the vaccine, though Cuba only made the announcement on Friday.
Borroto said since the development was achieved, "145 million doses have been exploited and not a single problem in their use has been reported."
Antibodies used to date in making therapeutic vaccines for humans have been obtained from fermentation of mammalian cells, a time-consuming, costly method that generates very small quantities.
Using plantibodies in contrast is hailed as a breakthrough in dramatically reducing costs but most importantly in boosting the yield of antibodies, which makes it easier for vaccines to be produced.
Barroto said that Cuba has several plantibody projects in advanced stages, including one to be used as a cancer treatment, from the same plant.
"Approval of the first CIGB plantibody clears the way for many potential uses of this alternative in manufacturing molecules important in the fight against devastating diseases," Barroto said.
He said the 'ancestral' tobacco plant in question was a noncommercial variety, with thicker leaves, grown in an inert environment, without soil, which helps ensure biosecurity.
"A number of major international companies are looking for a partnership with us," Barroto addes, without naming the companies. "We are pleased with how those contacts are proceeding."
