Talecris Biotherapeutics' Manufacturing Processes Safeguard Against Avian Bird Flu

Processes assure inactivation of enveloped viruses like H5N1, preventing potential transmission through Talecris' therapeutic plasma proteins

14-Nov-2005

Continuing its commitment to providing reliable supplies of the safest possible products, Talecris Biotherapeutics has confirmed its plasma collection and manufacturing processes significantly remove or inactivate enveloped viruses, such as those belonging to the influenza virus family, including the H5N1 virus associated with avian bird flu. With this announcement, patients and physicians can feel confident that transmission of the avian bird flu virus, a current public health concern, is extremely unlikely to occur with the use of Talecris plasma-derived therapeutic proteins.

The virus associated with avian bird flu, H5N1, is an influenza virus. These viruses are relatively large and are known as "enveloped" viruses; that is, they have a lipid envelope that surrounds the genetic material of the virus. Concerns over the potential pandemic that have been the subject of recent news reports prompted Talecris to assess whether the plasma-derived therapeutic proteins it manufactures could carry a risk of transmission for patients.

Pathogen safety scientists at Talecris Biotherapeutics have been pioneers in developing processes that remove or inactivate viral and other infectious particles, including the pathogenic prion associated with variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Over the past several years, Talecris has led the way with research demonstrating removal or inactivation of viruses, such as West Nile virus, vaccinia (the virus used in smallpox vaccinations), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from plasma-derived therapies. Additionally, the industry-leading work in the area of pathogenic prions has resulted in the FDA allowing clearance data to be included in product package inserts. As with all plasma-derived therapeutics, the potential to transmit infectious agents cannot be totally eliminated.

https://www.bionity.com/en/news/50190/talecris-biotherapeutics-manufacturing-processes-safeguard-against-avian-bird-flu.html