Because I like to post fun things on my Web site from time to time, I bet this headline didn't catch you completely off guard. But it's all true and in the pursuit of another antibiotic for humans.

Scientists in northern Australia are collecting blood samples from crocodiles, hoping their blood can be transformed into a powerful antibiotic. This comes after tests showed the reptile's immune system could kill the HIV virus. In fact, the serum derived from crocodiles works differently than that of other drugs, as it attacks bacteria more directly and immediately.

Scientists discovered a number of antibodies in crocodile blood seven years ago that killed penicillin-resistant bacteria. Flashing forward, researchers suspect a crocodile's immune system may be too powerful, necessitating the need for it to be synthesized for humans.

Folks, that will likely mean just one more potentially toxic and probably useless drug on the market that the mega-drug companies can use to extract billions of dollars you never needed to spend in the first place.

For every time traditional medicine uses an antibiotic appropriately, there are at least 10-20 times when they are used and cause complications. It is this inappropriate use that has resulted in antibiotic-resistant bacteria and a need for a new type of treatment.

MSNBC August 16, 2005