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Alligator Blood May Be Source of New Antibiotics

Posted by Zonk on from the darn-tasty-eating-too dept.

esocid writes "Biochemists from McNeese State University have described how proteins in gator blood may provide a source of powerful new antibiotics to help fight infections associated with diabetic ulcers and severe burns. This new class of drug could also crack so-called 'superbugs' that are resistant to conventional medication. Previous studies have showed alligators have an unusually strong immune system; unlike humans, alligator immune systems can defend against microorganisms such as fungi, viruses, and bacteria without having prior exposure to them. Scientists believe that this is an evolutionary adaptation to promote quick wound healing, as alligators are often injured during fierce territorial battles."

4 of 265 comments (clear)

  1. Antiobiotics by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1, Offtopic

    Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics Antiobiotics

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  2. Re:Cue TMNTs by Stonent1 · · Score: 1, Offtopic

    The problem is, alligator is not Kosher and probably not Halal (but I don't know for sure). I'm not sure how animal products work into medications, but some such as Armour Thyroid use dessicated pork thyroid glands as an ingredient and may not be Kosher.

  3. Re:superbugs by KevinIsOwn · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    Except with global warming, many of them will be dead before we have the chance.

  4. The grammar nazi that I am... by a4r6 · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    I believe it should read "Previous studies have shown" rather than "showed" because it's in the past perfect tense.