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British scientists from the University of Westminster have proposed using genetically modified tobacco to produce medicines, a development that could represent a major advance in healthcare in developing countries.
According to The Conversation, tobacco has been used by Native American peoples for centuries as a treatment for headaches, colds, ulcers, and stomach upsets. In Europe in the 16th century, it was considered a panacea, prescribed for almost all ailments. However, in the 18th century, its harmful properties became apparent, and the medical use of tobacco became obsolete.
Today, tobacco could become the basis for the production of complex medicines such as vaccines, insulin, and immunotherapy. Using recombinant genetic engineering technology, tobacco can be modified to produce the proteins needed to make medicines. This is much cheaper than traditional methods that require expensive bioreactors.
In 2012, the Canadian company Medicago demonstrated tobacco's potential by producing more than 10 million doses of influenza vaccine in just one month, according to researchers.
Tobacco is also used to produce immunotherapy for HIV, Ebola, and even cancer. One such drug was granted emergency use status in the United States during the 2014 Ebola outbreak.
Scientists added that tobacco could also play an important role in space exploration. The plant's seeds take up little space and could be used on Mars and other planets.
In addition to its use as medicine, tobacco can be used to produce expensive spices such as saffron or flavorings, making it a versatile crop in agriculture, according to The Conversation.
Source: RT + Agencies - Published on 15-03-2025 - https://ar.rt.com/zhbu
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