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Shark blood offer hope for new medicines

Shark blood offer hope for new medicines

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Antibodies in shark blood could potentially be a potent weapon in the fight against cancer, Australian scientists have found. Sharks have immune systems similar to humans, but their antibodies - the molecules which actually fight disease - are exceptionally resilient.

White shark at Isla Guadalupe, Mexico
White shark at Isla Guadalupe, Mexico

Researchers believe this quality could be harnessed to help slow the spread of diseases such as cancer.

Potentially, it could lead to a new generation of drug treatments.

The Australian team found that shark antibodies can withstand high temperatures as well as extremely acidic or alkaline conditions.

 

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