Could Oysters Hold the Key to New Antimicrobial Therapies?

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Salty Blood

Oysters have joined the battle against drug-resistant infections. Researchers found antimicrobial proteins in Sydney rock oyster’s hemolymph.

• Hemolymph = mollusk and insect version of blood

• Oyster proteins disrupt bacteria biofilm formation

• Allowing the immune system/antibiotics to work

Testing showed improved antibiotic effectiveness by 2-32x. Fortunately, and crucially, it’s not toxic to human cells, opening the door for future oyster-based therapies. Or an excuse for a pricey appetizer.

One shell of a discovery

Catch-up on science in sweatpants