Press Release:

The unknown side of expression of Human Growth Hormone in Transgenic Potato Plants

 

In a pioneering research effort, scientists at the National Institute for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology have achieved a significant breakthrough by successfully introducing human growth hormone (hGH) genes into potato plants. The study showed a notable alteration in the shoot morphology of transgenic potato plants as a result of expressing hGH, a protein typically associated with growth stimulation in humans and animals and not in plants.

The modified potato plants exhibited distinctive morphological changes, including increased thickness and reduced height compared to both wild-type and other transgenic variants. This unexpected finding underscores the profound impact that introduced genes can have on plant physiology, beyond the primary goal of protein production.

Given the complexity of plant systems and the potential for unforeseen interactions between introduced genes and plant hosts, this research highlights the critical need for comprehensive studies on the interaction of transgenic elements within agricultural biotechnology. Understanding these interactions is essential for harnessing the full potential of transgenic plants as bioreactors for pharmaceutical and industrial protein production while ensuring ecological safety and sustainability.

This study not only marks a milestone in plant biotechnology but also opens the door to further investigations into the mechanisms underlying these morphological changes. The implications of this research extend beyond the realm of agribiotech, offering valuable insights into the broader field of genetic engineering and its capacity to revolutionize the production of pharmaceuticals and other valuable proteins.

For more information, please contact Dr. Masoud Akhshik.