Recombinant technique and gonadotropins production: new era in reproductive medicine

To review current knowledge regarding recombinant DNA technology and its safety and efficacy in relation to recombinant gonadotropin production.

Studies that relate specifically to recombinant DNA technology, method of laboratory production, and the clinical aspects of using recombinant gonadotropins were identified through literature and Medline searches.

Recent developments in recombinant DNA technology have resulted in a rapidly expanding range of new diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities. This technology paves the way to the identification, isolation, cloning, and production of specific proteins. Recently, recombinant human gonadotropins became available for clinical use. The pharmacokinetics, receptor availability, pharmacodynamics, and safety were studied extensively and the drugs were found to be identical if not superior to urinary gonadotropins that have been used in reproductive medicine for the last 30 years. It is clear today that the use of recombinant human gonadotropins is expected to provide better batch-to-batch consistency, steady supply, and most importantly, a purified compound with high specific activity, which accounts for >99% of the preparation's protein content, allowing SC administration.

There is no doubt that recombinant gonadotropins produced by genetic engineering technology are here to stay and will represent an important treatment modality in various fertility disturbances.