Expansionary Institute

Quebec to become new site for R&D into genetically-enhanced animals,

Quebec in talks on farm for genetically modified cows

By Julie Remy

TORONTO, Dec 28 (Reuters) - A Netherlands biotech company is in talks with Quebec government's investment agency to develop genetically modified cows' milk that could be used to treat diseases in humans

Jean-Yves Duthel, vice-president of the Societe generale de financement du Quebec (SGF), said his agency has started "exclusive" talks with Pharming Group NV to study the feasibility of a farm in southeastern Quebec that would raise the genetically modified cows.

According to the plan, "transgenic" cows raised in Pharming's labs in Wisconsin would be transferred to the farm when they reach milking age. The milk would then be collected to extract human proteins used in the treatment of genetic diseases, blood conditions or infectious diseases.

One of the proteins, for example, could help the body stop internal or external bleeding, an application especially useful in surgery, Pharming spokeswoman Tonua Fedusenko said.

Duthel said the Quebec government would be ready to invest a minimum of C$10 million in the project.

He added that several Montreal companies have the expertise needed to develop Pharming's products, he said.

"All of this is part of the negotiations," he told Reuters.

The results of the talks are not expected to be announced for five or six months, Duthel said. Pharming is also in talks with the states of Wisconsin, Maryland and Virginia for its transgenic operation.

17:49 12-28-00

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Fri Dec 29