Why do some animals, like sharks and crocodiles, have such powerful immune systems that they rarely get sick or develop cancer, and could we learn from them to improve human health?

Question

Why do some animals, like sharks and crocodiles, have such powerful immune systems that they rarely get sick or develop cancer, and could we learn from them to improve human health?

In: 9649

Answer 1

There is a whole large research of sharks and their immune system. They show a great resistance to cancer. The study has been going on for years and a tremendous amount has been learned on how to block the growth of cancer cells. They have also learned how to slow or stop bacterial growth by studying sharks. Many medical universities have research labs devoted to working with sharks and that has led to the discovery the even DNA repair is possible. So your idea is correct that doctors and researchers did recognize the importance of the shark and have been able to learn many important medical procedures and even cures thanks to the mean old and dangerous shark.