If you needed another reason to like goat milk, here it is. Scientists are using genetically modified goats to produce a drug that protects against deadly chemical agents such as sarin and VX, according to the Proceedings of the Natural Academy of Sciences.

The drug known as Protexia is based on an enzyme produced in very small quantities by the human body. Scientists inserted the DNA for producing the enzyme into goat embryos. The adult goats then become drug-producing biofactories, producing the enzyme in their milk.

While Protexia still needs to undergo safety trials, the U.S. Department of Defense is throwing $213 million behind the development efforts of biotech firm PharmAthene. Researchers have already suggested that the drug is more effective than those currently carried by U.S. troops, in that it would prevent permanent neurological damage.

Via: BBC

It is a prospect that terrifies bioweapons experts: Terrorists release smallpox into an American city, spreading sickness and panic. Because the disease is untreatable and vaccines no longer exist, first responders and other emergency personnel would be particularly vulnerable.