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Semin Thromb Hemost 2001; 27(4): 357-372
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-16889
Copyright © 2001 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Production and Clinical Development of a Hansenula polymorpha-Derived PEGylated Hirudin

George C. Avgerinos1 , Brian G. Turner1 , Kenneth J. Gorelick1 , Adam Papendieck2 , Ulrike Weydemann2 , Gerd Gellissen2
  • 1Abbott Bioresearch Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
  • 2Rhein Biotech GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 August 2001 (online)

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ABSTRACT

This article describes the expression of the hirudin gene heterologously in the methylotrophic yeast Hansenula polymorpha, the establishment of an industrial-scale production process and the subsequent clinical development of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-hirudin. PEGylation increases the molecular weight of hirudin, thereby reducing its kidney filtration rate and immunogenicity and increasing its half-life in the circulation.

KEYWORD

Hirudin - PEG-hirudin - Hansenula polymorpha, manufacturing - clinical development

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