The approval is based in part on a study by scientists at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Alpha interferon is a natural protein present in the body in small amounts.
In recent years, gene-splicing techniques have permitted enough of the substance to be produced for research and therapy. Alpha interferon treatments have previously been shown effective against a rare leukemia and genital warts. FDA Commissioner Frank E. Young, M.D., Ph.D, said today's announcement marks an important advance in the fight against AIDS-related disease, as well as a practical application of biotechnology. The revolutionary gains being made through biotechnology can improve the nation's health and provide new hope to patients with AIDS and other serious diseases. Quantities for research and treatment were made possible by recombinant DNA or gene-splicing techniques.