ADVERTISEMENT

Vaccine against cocaine addiction starts test trials on animals

De’Fatima said similar research is being done in the United States, but with what could be a decisive difference.

Vaccine

Brazilian researchers have begun test trial of a vaccine against cocaine addiction on animals.

Prof. Angelo de’Fatima, of the Organic Chemistry department at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), said on Thursday in Rio de Janeiro that the vaccine has been under development for more than two years.

"We are developing a molecule to stimulate the production of antibodies by the immune system against cocaine.

"These antibodies bind to the cocaine, preventing it from reaching the brain and reducing the drug's euphoric effects, which is what will lead users to lose interest in its use,’’ she said.

ADVERTISEMENT

She, however, said that the Brazilian molecule is different from the American one, as theirs doesn't have the protein part.

De’ Fatima disclosed that Brazil team's molecule has yet to be patented.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), has observed that the cocaine use in Brazil is four times higher than the world average.

Enhance Your Pulse News Experience!

Get rewards worth up to $20 when selected to participate in our exclusive focus group. Your input will help us to make informed decisions that align with your needs and preferences.

I've got feedback!

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: eyewitness@pulse.ng

Recommended articles

No need to run when EFCC invites you, Cubana Chief Priest advises Nigerians

No need to run when EFCC invites you, Cubana Chief Priest advises Nigerians

Immigration places wanted Yahaya Bello on watchlist, unveils his passport details

Immigration places wanted Yahaya Bello on watchlist, unveils his passport details

Oyo govt justifies demolition of Yoruba Nation agitators’ building

Oyo govt justifies demolition of Yoruba Nation agitators’ building

NAFDAC raids popular supermarket in Abuja for selling counterfeit products

NAFDAC raids popular supermarket in Abuja for selling counterfeit products

Iranian morality police crack down on women who don't wear headscarves

Iranian morality police crack down on women who don't wear headscarves

FG sets up committee to compensate landowners affected by Lagos-Calabar road project

FG sets up committee to compensate landowners affected by Lagos-Calabar road project

Kano Gov remains a bona fide member of our party - NNPP debunks suspension

Kano Gov remains a bona fide member of our party - NNPP debunks suspension

We need ₦3.2trn to pay electricity subsidy in 2024 - FG

We need ₦3.2trn to pay electricity subsidy in 2024 - FG

Tinubu's proactive approach to security threats yielding results, Ribadu claims

Tinubu's proactive approach to security threats yielding results, Ribadu claims

Pulse Sports

Lionel Messi's son breaks the internet after scoring five goals for Inter Miami

Lionel Messi's son breaks the internet after scoring five goals for Inter Miami

Naija Stars Abroad: Onyedika, Boniface, and Osimhen shine across Europe

Naija Stars Abroad: Onyedika, Boniface, and Osimhen shine across Europe

Victor Osimhen and Tobi Amusan make list of Forbes’ 30 under 30 Class of 2024

Victor Osimhen and Tobi Amusan make list of Forbes’ 30 under 30 Class of 2024

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT