Scientists in New Zealand discovered that genetically modified goats could produce milk that contains anti-cancer substances, a monoclonal antibody known as cetuximab.
Preliminary results of the study got published on the server bioRxiv.
The document states that the technology of making preparations containing the substance is quite complex, although there is an option when the antibodies are provided in animal milk.
Scientists created several modified goats and added special genes to produce monoclonal antibodies. It is easy to isolate the obtained cetuximab, which makes it easier to use for therapeutic purposes.
Unlike the registered drugs that contain this substance, "goat cetuximab" has less immunogenicity, which is very important for protein therapy.
The potential of technology received praise. It is unknown whether clinical trials of a new version of cetuximab are underway.
