Based on Associated Press Report
March 18, 1995
Scientists have discovered that the upper surface cells of the bovine tongue produce a compound that is able to kill bacteria and viruses. Dr. Barry Schonwetter, Ethan Stolzenberg and Michael Zasloff at the Magainin Pharmaceuticals Inc. of Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, reported in the current issue of Science that they have isolated the compound known as lingual antimicrobial peptide, or LAP.
The scientists also examined inflamed tissue surrounding natural injuries to cow tongues and found a marked increase in the activity of LAP, suggesting the compound plays a key role in protecting bovine tongues from infection and promoting rapid healing.
LAP is produced through action of a gene, and the researchers said this gene is active in the cells that cover the upper surface of the bovine tongue. Evidence for the presence of LAP-producing cells also was found in the airway, colon and urinary tract of the cow, the scientists report.
Peptides similar to LAP have not been identified in humans, but the researchers suggest that all vertebrates might have similar cells that produce such natural antibiotics. If a way could be found to stimulate production of such peptides, a new medicine could be made which would strengthen natural defenses against viruses and bacteria that attack mucous membrane tissue. Examples of such viruses are Herpes and AIDS-causing HIV virus that invade the body through mucous membranes that line the mouth, airways, colon, urinary and genital tracts.
CNI News comments: It is curious that LAP is found in precisely those tissues which are most often taken during mysterious surgical cattle mutilations reported around the world and sometimes associated with possible alien activity.
Original file name: .CNI - Cow Tongue.Antibiotic
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