Abstract: A method for preparing transgenic pigs is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of: obtaining a recently fertilized pig ovum; isolating a first DNA sequence encoding a suitable promoter region; inserting the first DNA sequence into a plasmid cloning vector; isolating a second DNA sequence encoding a porcine growth hormone gene; inserting the second DNA sequence into the plasmid cloning vector; introducing the plasmid cloning vector into the male pronucleus; and, subsequently implanting the ovum into a female pig.

Abstract: The invention provides peptide analogues of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) or factor-2 (IGF-2). The peptide analogues of IGF-1 have at least the glutamic acid residue at position 3 replaced by another amino acid. The peptide analogues of IGF-2 are replaced at position 5 or 6 with another amino acid.

Abstract: A plasmid encoding a fusion protein comprising a first polypeptide having growth hormone activity and a second polypeptide which may be one of insulin growth factor (IGF)-I or IGF-II and their analogues, chicken histone H2A.I or human transcription factor SPI-lac Z with an optional cleavage sequence between the first and second polypeptides. The fusion protein may be used: 1) to treat growth hormone deficiencies; 2) to suppress loss of body protein following trauma such as burns or infection; 3) for farm animals to increase growth rates and efficiency of food conversion; 4) and to support growth of cells in culture.

Abstract: Peptide analogues of insulin-like growth factor 1 and growth factor 2 are disclosed. When the analogue is an analogue of growth factor 1 the glutamic acid residue is absent from position 3 of the N-terminal and either the glutamic acid residue or the threonine residue adjacent to glutamic acid residue at position 3 is replaced by a different amino acid residue. When the peptide analogue is an analogue of insulin growth factor 2 the glutamic acid residue position 5 is absent. Preferred peptide analogues are disclosed. Methods of use in pharmaceutical and veterinary preparations are described.