That gene can then be manipulated or introduced into a plant. After DeKalb introduces the gene into corn plants, a process which could take a year, material from the plants will be given back to UConn to test. Although animal and human genes have been introduced into plants already in other experiments, Sekellick says the scientists involved in the project will be working out questions about whether interferon can be effectively delivered orally and issues relating to dosage and timing of using the corn as feed. We are optimistic that there will be some significant advances in the poultry industry as a result of this technology. The scientists believe corn with sufficient levels of interferon could serve as an alternative or adjunct to vaccines to combat viral infections, including the avian flu, in poultry.
Infections are often costly to both farmers and consumers.
Eating a diet of interferon corn is expected to be more effective than using vaccines. Unlike vaccines, which work to prevent a virus from entering a cell, interferons can protect cells from the lethal action of a broad spectrum of viruses, even after the viruses have entered a cell. The gene sequence has been licensed by the University through Bio-Investigations, a venture capital firm based in Madison that is focused on the fields of human, veterinary and agricultural health care and maintains relationships with universities and corporations worldwide. Stewart Rosenberg, president of Bio-Investigations says both Marcus and Sekellick have outstanding reputations in interferon research.