Environmental Health Center

EnvironMinute Health Scripts

Insects and animals produce chemicals to defend against attack, to attract mates, and for other activities. Genetic engineers are now able to reproduce these chemicals and test their effects on humans, and many have shown great healing potential. A protein made by hookworms appears to stop dangerous kinds of blood clotting, as do compounds derived from the saliva of leeches and vampire bats. If tests are successful, the drugs derived from such chemicals may prove more effective than many of the drugs now available. Some may view insects and animals as rather humble creatures, but they've proven to scientists that they're extremely clever chemists.[:37]

The EnvironMinute is produced in cooperation with the National Safety Council and made possible by the Teresa and H. John Heinz III Foundation. [:10]

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