Transgenic plants as a source for the bioscavenging enzyme, human butyrylcholinesterase

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-7652.2010.00515.x
• Publication Date: 2010-03-26T02:45:01Z
• Authors: Brian C. Geyer; Latha Kannan; Irene Cherni; Ryan R. Woods; Hermona Soreq; Tsafrir S. Mor
• Keywords: Butyrylcholinesterase; Cholinesterase

Organophosphorous pesticides and nerve agents inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase at neuronal synapses in neuromuscular junctions. The resulting accumulation of acetylcholine overwhelms regulatory mechanisms, potentially leading to seizures death from respiratory collapse. While current therapies are only capable reducing mortality, elevation serum levels related butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) by application purified protein as a bioscavenger organophosphorous compounds is effective preventing all symptoms associated with poisoning these toxins. However, BChE therapy requires large quantities that can easily overwhelm sources. Here, we report genetic optimization, cloning high-level expression human plants. Plant-derived shown be biochemically similar plasma-derived terms catalytic activity inhibitor binding. We further demonstrate ability plant-derived protect animals against an pesticide challenge.