ZMapp
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ZMapp is an experimental drug first tested in animals for the Ebola virus. On 4 August 2014 an experimental drug, ZMapp, was first tested on humans. It was administered to two Americans who had been infected with Ebola. Both people appeared to have had positive results.[1][2]
The ZMapp drug is being produced by Mapp Biopharmaceutical Inc. Specialists working on the drug are Larry Zeitlin and Kevin Whaley. The antibody work came out of research projects by the U.S. Army more than a decade ago.
Process
The current process design includes placing the genes for the desired antibodies on a natural tobacco virus. By infection tobacco with the virus, the plant will create antibodies which are then extracted from the tobacco plant. The process takes a couple weeks.[3]
Results
While it is not yet known if this drug creates a viable cure, both patients who have received these antibodies appear to be improving.[4]
References
- ^ "Experimental drug likely saved Ebola patients". CNN. August 4, 2014.
- ^ "Mystery Ebola virus serum manufactured by San Diego firm". Los Angeles Times. August 4, 2014.
- ^ http://www.businessweek.com/news/2014-08-04/ebola-drug-made-from-tobacco-plant-saves-u-dot-s-dot-aid-workers
- ^ http://www.cnn.com/2014/08/04/health/experimental-ebola-serum/index.html?sr=tw080414ebolaserum1030aStoryPhoto