Fusion protein technologies for biopharmaceuticals: Applications and challenges

Stefan R. Schmidt consolidates the hugely diverse field of fusion proteins and their application in the creation of biopharmaceuticals. The text is replete with case studies and clinical data that inform and intrigue the reader as to the myriad possibilities available when considering the creation of a fusion protein. This valuable text will serve the novice as a broad introduction or the seasoned professional as a thorough review of the state of the art. The first marketed therapeutic recombinant protein was human insulin (Humulin® R). Its approval in 1982 was followed by other such products, including erythropoietin (EPO), interferon (IFN), and tissue plasminogen activator (tPa). Since the 1980s, the number and general availability of recombinant products that replace natural proteins harvested from animal or human sources has increased considerably. Following the initial success, researchers started de novo designs of therapeutic proteins that do not occur in nature. The first of these new drugs to be approved was etanercept (Enbrel®), a fusion portion containing a section of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor fused to the Fc portion of human IgG1.