A photo from open sources A group of scientists from Stanford University led by Dr. Christina Small brought a unique strain yeast. These unicellular mushrooms are able to turn sugar not into ethyl alcohol, and into opioids. Still similar drugs substances could be obtained exclusively from opium poppy. Not it’s not surprising that the discovery of the Americans became the subject of heated debate and discussion.
The specialists made their discovery not by chance, but purposefully. Scientists intended to obtain opium based fungus so that it can be used in pharmaceuticals, in in particular to create inexpensive painkillers and cough medicine.
It is worth noting that similar studies have been conducted before. For example, in 2005, a group of specialists from the University of Berkeley by changing yeast genes created a drug that became the basis for artemisinin – a means to combat malaria. Artemisinin replaced the quinine extracted from wormwood and demonstrated high efficiency in the treatment of complicated and severe forms malaria.
A photo from open sources
Many international scientists have expressed concern about new American development. They can be understood as similar innovation can fundamentally change the global drug trade – the efficiency of the yeast obtained is one hundred thousand times higher than that of opium poppy! If drug dealers get technology, opium can become cheaper and more affordable than ever, especially compared with other drugs.
However, it’s too early to talk about it, because the Americans it will take several more years to bring its yeast technology to mind. In addition, representatives of US intelligence reported that they would take all security measures in order to the fungus was not in bad hands.
A photo from open sources
