abstract |
A plasmid encoding a fusion protein comprising a first polypeptide having growth hormone activity and a second polypeptide which may be one of insulin growth factor (IGF)-I or IGF-II and their analogues, chicken histone H2A.I or human transcription factor SPI-lac Z with an optional cleavage sequence between the first and second polypeptides. The fusion protein may be used: 1) to treat growth hormone deficiencies; 2) to suppress loss of body protein following trauma such as burns or infection; 3) for farm animals to increase growth rates and efficiency of food conversion; 4) and to support growth of cells in culture. |