Researchers from Manchester University have discovered that humble spud contains distinctive antibacterial molecules which may treat stomach ulcer. Microbiology team members of the university hope that potatoes juice could go production as a daily dietary supplement. The inspiration appeared when one of department’s researchers tucked into a spud for Sunday lunch.
It escorted to the invention of a key molecule which could both treat as wells prevent the bacteria which survives in the stomach and causes stomach ulcers and heartburn. Uniquely, distinct from antibiotics, the stomach bacteria cannot develop resistance to the potato juice which also does not cause any side-effects.
Even researchers at the university carried out the test on diverse types of potatoes. They discovered that two varieties of potatoes namely Maris Piper and King Edward worked the best. The procedure to extract the unnamed molecule has now been patented because researchers hope it could one day be sold as a supplement analogous to probiotic yoghurt drinks.
Ian Roberts, professor of microbiology at the Faculty of Life Sciences, who worked on the discovery, explained they see the potato juice as a preventative measure to stop stomach ulcers developing that people would take as part of a healthy lifestyle. It could be a huge market if they can get it developed.
Prof Roberts added the discovery of potato juice is just one of a number of new medicines and treatments being developed by intellectuals of the University of Manchester. Staff there seeks out companies from across the world to develop the university’s inventions. The invention is one of many being which are made by researchers as they try to develop the products and medicines of tomorrow.