Testing in humans of insulin obtained from plants began, said geneticists from the Canadian company SemBioSys Genetics.

Insulin is necessary for people with diabetes, and genetics are trying to find the cheapest way to get it. The researchers tried to get insulin by integrating into the safflower genes that caused the plant to produce a compound called scientists proinsulin (an insulin precursor). Then the substance was treated with special enzymes and received a special type of insulin - SBS-1000.

The researchers conducted tests that showed that the structure, physical properties and functionality of the SBS-1000 corresponds to human insulin, and is also safe for health.

The tests on rodents and primates have already been carried out. For this period of time, the first stages of clinical trials are taking place, in which 30 volunteers participated.

Scientists compare the effect of SBS-1000 with two other commercial drugs used to treat diabetes, and study its biological effect on humans. The Canadian company promises to report on the results in the first half of this year.

A new method of obtaining insulin (in case of successful completion of testing in humans) will significantly reduce the cost of production. In particular, it will not be necessary to produce complex and expensive treatment of bacteria, as it is done to date.

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