Introduction:
This article discusses the value and cost considerations of serum albumin in biopharmaceutical manufacture and cell and gene therapies. It highlights the hidden risks associated with using albumin from blood donors and recombinant sources, such as unnatural post-translational modifications and batch-to-batch inconsistency. The article also mentions the high price of premium recombinant albumins and the limited supply. However, recent innovations in QTL technology have allowed for the development of new strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker’s yeast) to produce high-quality recombinant albumin at lower prices.
- Using albumin from blood donors and recombinant sources carries risks such as unnatural modifications and batch inconsistency.
- Ethical concerns arise from the risk of viral and prion contamination in plasma-derived albumin.
- Recombinant albumin derived from baker’s yeast offers a high-quality and consistent alternative to serum albumin.
- The technology for recombinant albumin has been patent protected, resulting in high prices and limited use.
- Recent innovations in QTL technology have allowed for lower-cost production of high-quality recombinant albumin.
Conclusion:
In summary, the article highlights the risks and limitations of using serum albumin from blood donors and recombinant sources in biopharmaceutical manufacture and cell and gene therapies. It emphasizes the need for a safer and more cost-competitive alternative. The recent advancements in QTL technology provide an opportunity for wider access to high-quality recombinant albumin at lower prices, potentially revolutionizing the industry.
