More so than its terrestrial counterpart, the oceanic ecosphere is teeming with possibilities for human benefit. From the infinite variety of life associated with the coral reefs to the absolute mystery of the deepest trenches, the marine world truly defines the planet itself. If, as science implies so convincingly, life has come from the sea then it can only be argued no less effectively that the sea is the best location in which to seek cures to diseases that have so plagued mankind since his arrival. |
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Besides the breathtakingly beautiful coral reefs and the important but often overlooked coastal estuaries, SADCRC research will focus upon the deep water regions, those areas most promising for the detection and isolation of compounds which exhibit a regulatory nature so important in controlling the growth of diseased cells. These regions include the Mesopelagic (depths from 200 to 1000 meters), the Bathypelagic (depths from 1000 to 4000 meters) and the Abyssopelagic (depths from 4000 to 6000 meters). In other words, the mid-oceanic depths. Located within the deep open seas are marine organisms that astonish the human imagination with their longevity, their adaptability, and their resistance to disease and injury. These are the very traits needed by those who battle cancer and represent a practical starting point in the search for a cure. To understand how some species remain immune to disease may aid in the development of vaccines. To detect the mechanism that permits microscopic animal life to grow at a fractional rate of terrestrial species may permit us to counter the ‘triggering’ of cancerous cells. Each of these examples hold clues to our survival; yet we must examine, observe, and understand before we are able to replicate. As within any other war, we must fully “know thy enemy”, train our troops, and seek out the best weapons imaginable. Our tactics must be sound, our ‘generals’ aggressive, and our ‘troops’ supported. We know that the ‘enemy’ tortures and kills. We know that it wounds indiscriminately and without regard to race, religion, or social class. Unlike other wars, however, this is one in which there should be no excuse for traitorous or apathetic behavior. We must win and we must win quickly. Nothing else will suffice. |
