Plant-Made Pharmaceuticals (PMPs), also referred to as Biopharming, is a sub-sector of the biotechnology industry that involves the process of genetically engineering plants so that they can produce certain types of proteins. The proteins can then be harvested and used to produce pharmaceuticals.
There is much debate over the practicality of using plants to produce proteins. Some groups fear that contamination of conventional crops might occur. This leads to the question of "Why would biotechnology companies use plants to produce proteins?"
Conventional production methods for pharmaceutical proteins involve substantial investments of both time and finances. Not only are there manufacturing challenges involved with conventional production methods, but there are also considerable regulatory challenges that must be met.
Currently, there are about 30 protein-based medicines on the market, and close to 100 in late-stage human trials. Consequently, there is a substantial requirement to provide a wider range of options for production of proteins used in these treatments.
Using plants can offer an easily controllable, safe, and cost-effective method for manufacturing proteins, provided that proper regulatory safeguards are put into place to insure that no outcrossing can occur.
Compared to conventional production methods, plant-made pharmaceuticals could save substantial time, money, and provide a system for producing proteins that could solve current production challenges.
Proteins made from plants can be used to develop treatments for some of the most serious diseases and conditions such as cancer, diabetes, HIV, heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, cystic fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, Hepatitis C, and arthritis.
External Links
PlantPharma.org Online Community
National Science Foundation
Pharma-Planta Consortium
Biotechnology Industry Organization
Biopharmaceuticals.com