While advising Beeologics I observed the FDA review process for REMEBEE, an oral dsRNA liquid used to control honey bee mortality associated with the Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus. I advised Beeologics on the development of the technology and provided expert opinion in front of the FDA. I saw first hand the incredible amount of exacting work and reporting that led to a grant of a “new drug designation” for Remebee, and a “Technical Section Complete” for all safety features under review: (target animal safety, human food health, environmental fate and biotechnology). Based on this designation, the FDA issued a permit for conducting large-scale clinical trials. Many leading beekeepers and millions of bees participated. I found it very exciting to take part in the development of a product with an entirely new mode of action to combat honey bee viruses responsible for massive colony losses, and with the potential to mark a turning point in our ability to preserve the health of this important pollinator.

Craig Mello
Distinguished Professor
Molecular Medicine Program
University of Massachusetts

2006 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine with Dr. Andrew Fire for the discovery that dsRNA can trigger RNA interference.

             ***********************************************
The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software.  For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html