Porcine factor VIII: past, present and future

Abstract

Porcine factor VIII concentrate is effective in up to 90% of bleeds. Its use is, however, sometimes associated with reactions and a fall in platelet count Furthermore, it is not virally attenuated, although no viral transmission from this product to humans has ever been demonstrated. A third-generation porcine factor VIII is currently being developed. This is purified from parvovirus-free porcine plasma using immunoaffinity and ion-exchange chromatography. It is virally attenuated using the solvent detergent method. It should have a very high specific activity and be virtually free of porcine von Willebrand factor. These product characteristics should confer greater product safety and a greatly reduced risk of treatment side effects.