Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are living cells or organisms which have been genetically modified for research or to produce specific pharmaceutical substances. A gene coding for a recombinant protein is inserted into a DNA molecule carrying all the genetic elements necessary for the cell to produce the protein of interest.
The assembled DNA carrying the genetic codes for the therapeutic protein is then inserted into the cells, enabling them to produce the recombinant protein. Genetic modification of cells and organisms presents a unique opportunity to increase the possibility of offering safe and efficacious medical help for patients.
The use of gene technology in biomedical research and the use
of GMOs in the production of pharmaceuticals offer substantial
benefits to the quality of products, the environment and opportunities
for the identification of new treatment concepts for patients.
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1 Contained use of
gene technology
Novo Nordisk finds
that the contained use of gene technology is an important tool in
the identification, development, and production of pharmaceuticals
for patients. These pharmaceuticals could not otherwise be provided
in sufficient quantity or quality.
2 Use of GMOs
Novo Nordisk only
uses GMOs in the lowest risk category for production and the final
products do not contain genetically modified cells or genes.
3 Antibiotic resistance genes
Novo Nordisk uses
production strains without antibiotic resistance genes whenever
technically possible and practically feasible.
4 Accidental release of GMOs
Novo Nordisk
recognises the concern about accidental release of GMOs to the
environment and has implemented appropriate measures to ensure
compliance with regulations set by the authorities.
5 Regulation and public concerns?
Novo Nordisk
supports the proper regulation of the use of gene technology and the
principle that public concerns are adequately addressed.
6 Precautionary
principle?
Novo Nordisk applies the Precautionary
Principle in the use of gene technology by conducting risk
assessments prior to use.?
7 International
standards?
Novo Nordisk actively participates in the
development of relevant international standards for gene technology.?
8 Transparency and
openness?
Novo Nordisk supports transparency and
openness in relation to the use of gene technology and continues to
report publicly on our use of the technology.
“The genetically modified
cells in our production are created in a laboratory and only
intended for production in a protected and controlled environment.
This means that the cells are very weak. It will take a number of
very unusual incidents for our GMOs to survive in nature.”
Asser Sloth Andersen
M.Sc. in
molecular biology
Novo Nordisk
Novo Nordisk uses gene technology and GMOs in the research and production of pharmaceuticals. The application of gene technology enables us to produce a variety of biologically active proteins in large quantities, for instance various types of insulin for the treatment of diabetes, hormones for the treatment of growth disorders, and blood clotting factors for the treatment of haemophilia.
Novo Nordisk continuously aims at reducing any uncertainties and at developing additional precautionary approaches. We follow best practices and adhere to all regulations to eliminate and manage risks related to GMOs.
Download our brochure about gene technology in medicine development and production.
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