Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Mong Diep and her colleagues have successfully researched recombinant eCG and hFSH hormones with a single injection for the entire reproductive support process. Their research focuses on the production of two new recombinant gonadotropin hormones, hFSH (human Follicle Stimulating Hormone) and eCG (equine Chorionic Gonadotropin), aimed at supporting reproduction for humans and animals.
In November 2020, Associate Professor Mong Diep’s research group received funding for the project “Production of single-chain gonadotropins for fertility treatment” from Vingroup Innovation Fund (VINIF). By April 2024, the team successfully launched two hormones – eCG and hFSH – which have proven biological effectiveness nearly equivalent to standard hormones. These hormones have the advantage of a long half-life in the body, requiring only a single injection for the entire treatment process.
The research team completed the production process, including design, plasmid amplification, expression on cells, purification, biological activity analysis in the laboratory, and testing on mammalian models. Associate Professor Mong Diep highlighted the scarcity of natural gonadotropin hormones and the challenges in production and supply due to hygiene and ethical issues. This scarcity and high transportation costs have increased the overall cost of natural gonadotropin hormones, affecting their use in infertility treatments for humans and reproductive control in animals.
The project’s recombinant single-chain hormones, hFSH and eCG, offer a solution with a single injection for the entire reproductive support process. These hormones mark a significant advancement in reproductive support, providing a more effective, sustainable, and accessible infertility treatment option compared to traditional products. Clinical trials on humans have not been conducted yet due to current project limitations, but the research team is prepared to transfer the technology for market implementation.
Experts at a recent scientific conference held at Quy Nhon University highly praised the potential and effectiveness of the two single-chain recombinant hormones in modern assisted reproductive techniques. The research is believed to significantly support fertility in humans and animals, with a specific focus on improving cattle reproduction. Dr. Huynh Gia Bao, an expert in IVF techniques, hopes that this research project will enhance accessibility and reduce treatment costs for Vietnamese patients, particularly in remote areas.
Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Mong Diep, the Head of the Department of Applied Biology – Agriculture at Quy Nhon University, collaborates on research with the French National Institute for Research on Agriculture, Food, and the Environment (INRAe). Her recent achievement as the only Vietnamese person to meet professor standards in France in 2024 highlights the significance of her contributions to the field of biotechnology. With the potential for high commercialization, the research project is expected to elevate Vietnam’s position in biotechnology.