Hopefully none of us will ever benefit from the latest discovery from opossum research. But researcher Claire Komives had great news to share with NationalGeographic.com.
For years opossum aficionados have known that the opossum is virtually immune to snake venom. Even a bite from a diamondback rattlesnake is no threat. Now researchers have learned that the blood of opossum contains a peptide that not only protects them but, when extracted, can provide the same protection to mice in the laboratory.
The understanding is that the peptide binds to a toxic protein in the venom and renders it harmless. The discovery promises an effective and inexpensive treatment for snake bite victims. And, not only does the protection extend to other snake venoms, it also works against toxic scorpions and some toxic plants.
Who knew the pesky opossum that roots around in our lawns could be the foundation of a major treatment for snake bite victims? I didn't even know they were immune to snake bite venom! How do researchers come up with such obscure information that leads to huge advances in science, health and life in general?
Not that this has anything to do with reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. I just thought it was interesting. And it helped me remember that it's "opossum," not oppossum and definitely not possum. But now I need to know...is it pronounced o-possum or, as we say in the south, possum?
For years opossum aficionados have known that the opossum is virtually immune to snake venom. Even a bite from a diamondback rattlesnake is no threat. Now researchers have learned that the blood of opossum contains a peptide that not only protects them but, when extracted, can provide the same protection to mice in the laboratory.
The understanding is that the peptide binds to a toxic protein in the venom and renders it harmless. The discovery promises an effective and inexpensive treatment for snake bite victims. And, not only does the protection extend to other snake venoms, it also works against toxic scorpions and some toxic plants.
Who knew the pesky opossum that roots around in our lawns could be the foundation of a major treatment for snake bite victims? I didn't even know they were immune to snake bite venom! How do researchers come up with such obscure information that leads to huge advances in science, health and life in general?
Not that this has anything to do with reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. I just thought it was interesting. And it helped me remember that it's "opossum," not oppossum and definitely not possum. But now I need to know...is it pronounced o-possum or, as we say in the south, possum?
No comments:
Post a Comment