Alligator blood may beat MRSA

NEW ORLEANS, April 8 (UPI) -- Louisiana researchers say proteins found in alligator blood may provide doctors with new antibiotics to fight serious infections.

A study presented at the American Chemical Society national meeting in New Orleans revealed alligators have an unusually strong immune system and can fight microorganisms such as fungi, viruses and bacteria without having prior exposure to them, the society said in a news release.

"We're very excited about the potential of these alligator blood proteins as both antibacterial and antifungal agents," said Mark Merchant, a biochemist at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, La. "There's a real possibility that you could be treated with an alligator blood product one day."

The team from McNeese and Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, said alligators probably underwent an evolutionary adaptation to promote quick wound healing from fierce territorial battles. Merchant said gator-blood creams show particular promise as topical ointments.