I read about how they used 'deactivated' HIV to help stop the growth of a type of brain cancer in two boys. It made me think.

Historically speaking, the dangerous, poisonous plants have been the ones that have provided effective medical treatments in non-lethal doses. (Foxglove - digitalis)

Some of the archaic treatments are now in use again because the do have a definite, legitimate, place in modern medicine. (Leaches and trepanning)

Things that seem unclean and contrary to reason and logic can save limbs and lives. (maggots in infected wounds and for infection prevention)

It is interesting that the scariest epidemic of my generation, AIDS, may be providing a new medical breakthrough in the treatment of cancer. Taking HIV, genetically altering it so it will not cause AIDS, and using it as a carrier to get healthy genes into a body with cancer to halt the progression of the cancer.

It's amazing how the greatest new disease of my lifetime has the potential to lead to the greatest cure.

<---------Is wondering what modern application leaches have besides catching catfish...