Visible in this 1:1.2 ratio view of a preserved tapeworm, individual reproductive segments of living tapeworms continue to mature and produce infective eggs as the parasite grows in length. This rat tapeworm can grow to an average length of 6 to 10 inches, while human tapeworms may be 10 feet in length. Research by John Oaks, professor of comparative bioscience in the School of Veterinary Medicine, and emeritus professor of the School of Pharmacy, Paul Bass have identified certain biochemicals used by these organisms to survive in the intestinal track that may be helpful in increasing drug uptake from the human’s digestive system by slowing passage of drugs through the intestine.
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Photo by: Jeff Miller
Date: 2/03 File#: D100 digital camera frame 2061
