Poppy genes that make codeine identified

CALGARY, Alberta, March 16 (UPI) -- Canadian researchers say they have identified the unique genes that allow the opium poppy to make codeine and morphine.

The University of Calgary scientists said their achievement might lead to alternate methods of producing the painkillers, either by manufacturing them in a laboratory or controlling the production of the compounds in the plant.

"The enzymes encoded by these two genes have eluded plant biochemists for a half-century," Professor Peter Facchini, who led the study, said. "In finding not only the enzymes, but also the genes, we've made a major step forward. It's equivalent in finding a gene involved in cancer or other genetic disorders."

Codeine is the most widely used opiate in the world.

"Our discovery now makes it possible to use micro-organisms to produce opiate drugs and other important pharmaceuticals," Facchini said.

The study that included post-doctoral researcher Jillian Hagel is reported in the online early edition of the journal Nature Chemical Biology.