Cancer cure found in tick saliva
According to researchers from the Brazilian Institute Butantan, this substance can slow down the growth or lead to the complete disappearance of melanomas and tumors of the pancreas.
The tick Amblyomma cajennense, whose saliva was studied by scientists, is a carrier of infectious diseases dangerous to humans, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The initial reason for the interest in this arachnid was the search for substances that prevent blood clotting.
It was possible to isolate a protein with anticoagulant properties from the saliva of ticks, and then to establish its production in cultures of genetically modified bacteria. In the course of further research, scientists came to the conclusion that the compound they obtained not only prevents blood clotting, but also has the ability to slow down the proliferation of malignant tumor cells without harming healthy cells.
In laboratory experiments, a two-week course of tick protein injections completely stopped the growth of malignant tumors of the skin and pancreas in mice. A longer administration of the protein led to the complete disappearance of neoplasms.
Currently, the staff of the Butantan Institute is searching for pharmaceutical companies willing to undertake further financing of experiments with a potential cancer drug. According to them, the research necessary to obtain approval for clinical trials will take at least several years.
Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru02.09.2009