Description: Molecular farming is an innovative approach that combines biotechnology and agriculture to produce pharmaceutical products and other compounds of interest in genetically modified plants. This method allows scientists to insert specific genes into the DNA of plants, enabling them to produce proteins, antibodies, and other compounds that would normally be obtained from animal or synthetic sources. Molecular farming not only aims to improve the efficiency of producing these products but also has the potential to reduce costs and increase sustainability by using plants as biological factories. This approach aligns with sustainability principles as it can decrease reliance on resource- and energy-intensive industrial processes while leveraging the natural growth cycles of plants. Additionally, molecular farming can contribute to food security by diversifying the sources of production for essential medicines and other products, making them more accessible in regions where resources are limited. In summary, molecular farming represents a crucial intersection between technology and sustainability, offering innovative solutions to contemporary challenges in health and agricultural production.
History: Molecular farming began to take shape in the 1980s with advancements in biotechnology and genetic engineering. One of the most significant milestones was the creation of transgenic plants, achieved by introducing specific genes into the DNA of plants. In 1994, the first transgenic agricultural product, the Flavr Savr tomato, was approved, designed to have a longer shelf life. Since then, research in molecular farming has grown exponentially, focusing on the production of therapeutic proteins and vaccines in plants, leading to increased acceptance and use of genetically modified crops in various applications.
Uses: Molecular farming is primarily used for the production of pharmaceutical products, such as monoclonal antibodies, hormones, and vaccines. It is also applied in the production of enzymes and proteins that can be used in the food industry and in the manufacture of biofuels. Additionally, research is being conducted on its use in the production of bioactive compounds that may have health benefits for humans, as well as in improving plant resistance to diseases and adverse environmental conditions.
Examples: A notable example of molecular farming is the production of the hepatitis B vaccine in tobacco plants, where a gene was inserted that allows the plants to produce a protein similar to that of the virus. Another case is the development of corn plants that produce antibodies against the Ebola virus, which could facilitate the production of treatments in the event of outbreaks. These examples illustrate how molecular farming can transform the production of medicines and improve responses to health emergencies.
