Educational Media Reviews Online

What brings Northern Irish biochemists to the rainforests of China, searching for venomous frogs? The answer is simple: to harvest protein molecules called peptides. Rainforests are home to more than one-half of the world’s plant and animal species. Fifty years ago, rainforests comprised 15% of the world’s land surface; today, that figure is at 6% and falling. Every sixty seconds 25 acres of rainforest are cleared, eliminating habitats of species, taking their secrets with them, secrets that could possibly provide cures for human diseases. One of the exciting prospects of harvesting peptides from frogs is that it can be done without killing any frogs. Using electro stimulus (a gentle current, similar to that found in acupuncture), the frogs are prompted to produce secretions, which are rinsed off with water into a beaker. The frog is then released and the secretions are freeze dried, the water removed under pressure, and the resulting white powder is subsequently studied and tested. Given that frogs seem to possess natural antibiotics, biochemists are looking for new molecules that can be adapted for use in developing cures for cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerate diseases. Frogs are just one of the many rainforest species that have proven very successful at evolving defenses against larger predators and the study of peptides is expected to lead to the development of fungicides that will that will prove beneficial in combating human diseases, and in developing plants that are resistant to pests. Other discoveries point towards what are called “messenger molecules” that could prove effective in fighting cancer and the treatment of leukemia. Exciting, too, are the possible applications for delivering drugs to stop the growth of tumors, lower blood pressure, and using the anti-coagulating properties found in certain peptides. The Giant Salamander, a long-lived species, holds out the hope of unlocking the secret of aging in cells.

As these scientists harvest peptides, they also instruct the local scientists in these techniques, passing on these skills much as shamans once did. Chinese scientists are excited about the prospect of developing a center for peptide research.

This documentary provides an exciting look at the cutting-edge technologies currently being used to discover new drugs, cures for diseases, and solutions for improving life throughout the world. All we have to do is help save the rainforests so that this important work and study can continue.

Beautifully photographed throughout, the variety and colorful array of frog species, as well as other rainforest species, make for a visual palette that will leave viewers awestruck. Haunting Celtic music further enhances this production. Highly recommended for middle schools, high schools, and colleges with biology and health programs.