Tobacco may revolutionize pharmaceutical production

Tobacco, known for its harmful effects, may have a new role in medicine. Genetic engineering allows tobacco to produce complex pharmaceuticals, potentially making medications like insulin and vaccines more accessible, especially in low-income countries. Recent developments show tobacco's potential in producing vaccines and cancer immunotherapies. A Canadian company demonstrated its ability to create over 10 million doses of the flu vaccine in just one month, highlighting its efficiency as a production platform. As tobacco's popularity declines, repurposing tobacco crops could support farmers in low-income countries. Additionally, engineered tobacco may help produce medications for future space missions, offering a sustainable solution for pharmaceutical needs on Earth and beyond.