Where many therapeutic compounds are raised in bacteria or fungi, plants sometimes offer many advantages as bioreactors. Capital and production costs are lower, and products may be edible instead of injectable. The problem tends to be standardization, and conditions that ensure that the desired proteins are produced This episode features Jim Wilson from Zea Biologics, where cleanrooms, precise regulation of all aspects of the plant growth environment, and massive data collection, allow for the production of biological compounds to treat everything from hemophilia to influenza. The compounds are bio-encapsulated, a patented process that allows oral delivery instead of injection. Using precision "pharming" drugs and be produced at a lower cost in less time, and the products are temperature stable, allowing wider distribution at lower cost, with a lower carbon footprint.
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