23.02.1.2 Proteins that Augment an Existing Biological Process

Infertility is an example of a biological process that can treated by augmentation with key regulatory molecules. Recombinant human chorionic gonadotrophin hormone (Ovidrel) is produced from genetically modified Chinese hamster ovary cells and used in women undergoing superovulation prior to assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF). Ovidrel is administered to trigger final follicular maturation and luteinisation after stimulation of follicular growth. In addition, Ovidrel is administered to trigger ovulation and luteinisation in anovulatory or oligo-ovulatory patients after stimulation of follicular growth.

Human recombinant CSF (Leukine) stimulates proliferation and differentiation of neutrophils, eosinophils & monocytes in patients with leukopaenia and HIV.

Furthermore, it should also be noted that a family of human recombinant interferons have been produced for use in a number of conditions such as hepatitis C (Infergen), hepatitis B (Intron A) and multiple sclerosis (Betaferon) where they have an undefined but probable immunomodulatory effect.

Lastly the active fragment (1-34) of recombinant human parathyroid hormone (Teriparatide) is used to treat osteoporosis by activating osteoblasts and stimulating the formation of new bone.