In Gamkaskloof, traditional healers have a special cure for epilepsy — hyraceum, the fossilised urine and faeces of rock hyraxes, a small African herbivore. Now, research has revealed why it seems to be rather effective. Hyraceum from the region is shown to have an affinity for GABA-benzodiazepine receptors, which inhibits seizures when compounds bind to it. While it’s still unknown which compounds in the hyraceum are responsible, it seems it might be related to the hyraxes’ diet, as the receptors were found in only four of the fourteen samples taken. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
