Alligator blood could help fight MRSA

Link: Alligators could help fight MRSA - Telegraph.

Despite their reputation for deadly attacks on humans and pets, alligators are wiggling their way toward a new role as potential lifesavers, says Dr Kermit Murray of Louisiana State University. He tells the spring meeting of the American Chemical Society in New Orleans that proteins in gator blood may provide a source of powerful new antibiotics to help fight superbugs, along with infections associated with diabetic ulcers and severe burns. Their study is the first to explore the antimicrobial activity of alligator blood in detail. "We're very excited about the potential of these alligator blood proteins as both antibacterial and antifungal agents," says co-author Dr Mark Merchant. "There's a real possibility that you could be treated with an alligator blood product one day."