Biopharming crops being cultivated to possibly treat chronic illnesses are vandalized by French Group, Collectif des faucheurs volontaires.

(HydroponicSearch.com) October 20, 2005 -- The International Academy of Life Sciences denounced vandalisim on crops being grown in France to treat cystic fibrosis and other diseases. The IALS called for the continuation of research into the potentially life-saving technologies.

In the summer of 2005, a French-based protest group known as the Collectif des faucheurs volontaires (the Volunteer Reapers), have claimed responsibility for destroying the biopharmaceutical crops planted by a French leader in the plant pharmaceuticals industry, Meristem.

Cystic fibrosis is a disease that causes chronic respiratory and digestive problems and is the most common genetic disease among people of European ancestry. The crops were reportedly being cultivated to produce anti-cancer antibodies as well as protiens that would possibly ease the effects of cystic fibrosis.

"Apparently Inspired by a misinformed fear of this progressive technology, these groups may have damaged the hopes that those suffering grave illnesses have of one day finding a treatment that will allow them to lead a normal life," said IALS President Dr. Hilmar Stolte. "This case illustrates the need for informed dialogue on plant-made pharmaceuticals that looks at the medical issues and opportunities from a sound grounding in science."

The French Biotech Association, which publicly lamented the "climate of suspicion" that is propelled by groups like the Volunteer Reapers. Philippe Pouletty, the president of the biotech association said, "The distance between the United States and Europe in biotechnology continues to grow.. In 2004, European investments in biotechnology made up only 17 percent. Although this is not the main factor for our current problems, the political context significantly contributes to it."

Stolte called for a continuation of the work to develop biopharm crops and continuing dialogue to further public understanding of the opportunities the technology may offer.

"It is imperative that the public is informed about plant-made pharmaceuticals," he said. "It would be regrettable, and even tragic, if the combative political environment that currently exists in some parts of Europe were to curb investment in -- or excuse the destruction of -- potentially life-saving pharmaceutical crops."

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