HKUST Research Promises Cheaper Treatment for Burns and Ulcers

Abstract

[evdate 1998-02-17] For immediate release 17 February 1998 HKUST Research Promises Cheaper Treatment For Burns & Ulcers Biochemists at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have developed a cost-effective process to mass produce a skin-growth protein that could help heal burns, wounds and ulcers. The researchers have now signed an agreement with Leader Gene Ltd to allow the company to use their technology to produce the protein commercially. After 18 months of research funded by the Hong Kong Industry Department, the research team signed the technology transfer agreement with local company Leader Gene Ltd. "This is a good collaboration with the University," said Dr Kai T. Tam, CEO of Leader Gene. "We wish biological scientists would transfer more research like this to local industry." "The hEGF produced has the same potency as that naturally produced by the human body," said Dr W. K. Wong, the project's principal investigator, " but it is considerably cheaper." Human epidermal growth factor, or hEGF, has been shown to stimulate new growth of skin, intestinal and corneal surfaces, helping to treat wounds, burns, ulcers and corneal damage. To be an effective treatment, hEGF needs to be applied continuously, so Drs Wan Keung Wong, Raymond S. C. Wong and James Hackett of the University of Department of Biochemistry have developed a recombinant DNA system that can produce the protein cost-effectively and in large quantities. The properties of hEGF may also enable this protein to be used as an active ingredient in skin care and cosmetics. Note to Editors: For further information, please contact Mr Bosco Wong of the Public Affairs Office on 2358-6307, or email pamedia@usthk.ust.hk. Home | News & Events | Press Releases | UST Research Promises Treatment For Burns & Ulcers

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