Pharma-Planta: road testing the developing regulatory guidelines for plant-made pharmaceuticals

Authors: Sparrow, Penelope; Irwin, Judith; Dale, Phil; Twyman, Richard; Ma, Julian

Source: Transgenic Research, Volume 16, Number 2, April 2007 , pp. 147-161(15)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Significant advances over the last few years have seen plant-made pharmaceuticals (PMPs) move from the exploratory research phase towards clinical trials, with the first commercial products for human use expected to reach the market by 2009. Europe has yet to witness the commercial application of PMP technology, although at least one product has begun phase II clinical trials with others following close behind. These emerging products are set to challenge the complex and overlapping regulations that currently govern GM plants and `conventional' pharmaceutical production. The areas of responsibility are being mapped out between the different EU regulatory agencies, with specific guidelines currently being drawn up for the regulation of PMPs. This article discusses issues surrounding the development of robust risk-assessment and risk-management practices based on health and environmental impact, while working with EU regulatory authorities to ensure appropriate regulatory oversight.

Keywords: Pharma-Planta; PMP; Plant made pharmaceuticals; Biosafety; Regulations

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11248-007-9074-2

Affiliations: 1: Email: penelope.sparrow@bbsrc.ac.uk

Publication date: 2007-04-01