abstract |
Novel growth hormone conjugates comprising a growth hormone compound (GH) and a growth hormone binding protein (GHBP) are disclosed. The invention also encompasses a novel derivatization method for producing stable, long-lasting conjugate (hGH-GHBP) by site specific conjugation. The novel GH-GHBP conjugates have an extended half-life in circulation that facilitates therapeutic use of the protein. The GH-GHBP conjugates exhibit pharmacological properties such as increased functional in vivo half-life, improved renal filtration, improved protease protection and albumin binding. |