Scientists finally discovered the true identity of contagious cancer that has been rapidly killing the Tasmanian devils. Reported in
Science from a group of researchers, the cancer has been discovered to start in the nerve fibers and it affects the face of the devil. Hence came the name, devil facial tumor disease. At first, scientists thought that it was a virus spreading the disease, but now it is known that the cancer itself is actually spreading between Tasmanian devils.
This breakthrough in science allows for scientists to develop a vaccine that would target proteins. It is crucial to develop this vaccine because the devils might reach extinction with this plague. Since the genome of the devils have not been fully recognized, this may serve as a problem to scientists who want to save them. They are currently working very hard to help the Tasmanian devils and develop this vaccine.
Omg..I feel so bad for these adorable devils. It is so sad to see the facial tumors. I hope that the doctors do come up with a vaccine because it would be a tragedy to see the Tasmanian devil become extinct.
ReplyDeletei was actually watching a show on animal planet the other day about Tasmanian Devils and they didnt ever mention this cancer problem! im happy to see that they are working on a vaccine, maybe it could be a link to human cancers...
ReplyDeleteI would not use the term "adorable" but they are an animal. I am usually not a supporter of such research, especially if it is natural selection at work. But, if the research can lead to assisting in helping with other cancers, I believe it is valid. It was also interesting to read that this could be a result of non-mutation of the species. It seems that Tasmanian Devils are genetically identical. Maybe if they were not so mean they could have cross bred and been able to fight off this disease.
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