"New Tamiflu" formula being developed

A group of researchers at Tokyo University has developed a formula to produce the antiflu medicine Tamiflu using a petrochemical material instead of the plant-based ingredient used currently.

The group, headed by Prof. Masakatsu Shibasaki of the Tokyo University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, said the new method would ensure the stable supply of the antiviral drug in the face of surging demand worldwide prompted by fears of a bird flu outbreak.

Tamiflu is exclusively produced by Swiss-based pharmaceutical giant Roche. The drug, believed to be the most effective for combating new types of influenza, is produced using of shikimic acid taken from the star anise, the fruit of the illicium verum tree.

Many countries have began stockpiling Tamiflu as a precaution against a possible flu outbreak, which has led to a chronic shortage.

Shortages can also be caused by bad weather, which affects the stable supply of star anise.

Shibasaki's team has successfully produced Tamiflu by replacing shikimic acid with 1,4-cyclohexadiene. Cyclohexadiene can be produced from petroleum at low cost.

To facilitate the necessary chemical reaction, the researchers used the catalytic asymmetric reaction processed invented by Ryoji Noyori. The finding led to Noyori being awarded with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

Shibasaki is also a pioneer in this area of research.

Shibasaki's formula leaves room for the development of a new antiflu drug in case a new virus tolerant to Tamiflu emerges.

Tokyo University on Thursday (Feb 23) applied for an intellectual property patent on the formula, although the petrochemical-based flu medicine will not be able to be produced without approval by Roche because it holds the licence to Tamiflu.

"We'll discuss the matter (of licensing) with Roche and continue with our research," Shibasaki said.

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