From Lizard Saliva to Diabetes Drugs

by Toney Allman

Overview

Who would have thought that the saliva from a slippery tongue of a reptile could save a human life? A chemical derivative of Gila monster saliva has become a new kind of drug for type 2 diabetics. In use since June, 2005, Byetta is changing lives. The story of the discovery of the hormone in Gila monsters is described, as well as its amazing function in Gila monsters and how Byetta impacts diabetes is told here.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780737734874
Publisher:	Greenhaven Publishing LLC
Publication date:	03/23/2006
Series:	Imitating Nature Series
Edition description:	Library Edition
Pages:	32
Product dimensions:	9.00(w) x 7.00(h) x 0.28(d)
Age Range:	8 - 11 Years

Editorial Reviews

Review: From Lizard Saliva to Diabetes Drugs "This book contains interesting facts about gila monsters and explains how a scientist developed a diabetes drug from the saliva of the reptiles. The author provides enough details to show the link to the insulin need of humans."—Book Buzz, April 2008

From the Publisher