Protein map of human spit created

[TechBear_Seattle]

While European scientists are researching cures for cancer and diabetes, American researchers are studying spit. Go figure. :eyes: Interesting stuff, though.

Protein map of human spit created

U.S. researchers have identified all 1,116 unique proteins found in human saliva glands, a discovery they said on Tuesday could usher in a wave of convenient, spit-based diagnostic tests that could be done without the need for a single drop of blood.

As many as 20 percent of the proteins that are found in saliva are also found in blood, said Fred Hagan, a researcher at the University of Rochester Medical Center in New York who worked on the study.

"This is potentially a large field that has many clinical implications in the area of disease diagnostics," said Hagan, whose work was published in the Journal of Proteome Research.

The researchers hope saliva-based tests could be used to diagnose cancer, heart disease, diabetes and a number of other conditions.

The full article is available at http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080325/sc_nm/spit_proteins_dc

[rateyes]

1. I'd be glad to give a few doctors I know a sample. nt

[DeSwiss]

2. K&Ring....

...because its very interesting, and because I like Ralph Wiggum!!! (but I won't shake his hand)

[TechBear_Seattle]

3. Did you ever see the "Ralph Wiggum for President" episode of The Simpsons?

It was the first episode of 2008. See this thread.

[DeSwiss]

4. No, sadly I hadn't seen it....

...but then I'm not much of a teevee watcher anymore. Ever since it crossed the line and became even less than the "vast wasteland" it already was.

- On the other hand, The Simpsons are about the only thing left on the teevee with any social redeeming value. At all...