More reflections on the connection between BSE and CJD.
Many of us in the microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology area routinely
use various forms of beef extracts (Brain-Heart Infusion, for example) in
nutrient media (many of us aren't even aware of this). Interestinglyly some of
the companies we obtained materials from obtained their beef extracts from the
United Kingdom.
Fortunately there are already rules governing the production of recombinant
protein for clinical applications using beef extracts from countries where BSE
is not endemic. But I don't think we can be too careful.
Those of us routinely using nutrient media may well wish to ask our suppliers to
indicate the sources of their beef extracts.
Steve Projan
Wyeth-Ayerst Research
