Devil facial tumor disease has ravaged the population of Tasmanian Devils in the last decade. DFTD is a
transmissible cancer, i.e. the tumor cells themselves (which differ genetically from their host animal) are the agent responsible. The disease is spread by biting and other contact, and the resulting grotesque tumors interfere with feeding and lead to starvation.
Poor immune response may be partially responsible. This is actually not the only such disease: canine transmissible venereal tumor is an
analogue that has been known to be contagious since the 19th century. (CTVT, however, gets a proper immune response.)
[more inside]
posted by parudox
on Oct 29, 2007 -
7 comments
Going bananas. The only fruit to ever appear on a Velvet Underground album cover (not to mention the title of a J. D. Salinger short story) may be on its way to extinction. Facts: I) total disappearance could occur within a decade; II) bananas are the staple diet for half a billion people and III) current genetic tampering mean that, even if the fruit doesn't quite disappear, it will taste and
look different (Guardian article
here). Feeling nostalgic already? Visit the stylish
Banana Museum or give someone you love the
Enchanted Banana of Happiness (not what you're thinking). first link via
Fark
posted by 111
on Jan 15, 2003 -
53 comments
A success for gene therapy to help hemophiliacs is announced. This is a first, but only time will tell if the treatment has a lasting effect and can be repeated. So far it's worked for only four of the six patients in the trial. The
NY Times explains the research.
posted by caraig
on Jun 7, 2001 -
5 comments
