"Human Sweat: A Potential Key to Preventing Lyme Disease, Say Scientists"

Researchers at MIT and the University of Helsinki have discovered that a protein found in human sweat inhibits the growth of the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. This protein, called SCGB1D2, is present in one-third of the population and may offer protection from the disease. The study suggests potential for preventative and therapeutic applications based on this protein, including skin creams to prevent Lyme disease and treat antibiotic-resistant infections. With ticks emerging earlier than usual this year, the findings offer hope for new approaches to combat the disease, which affects an estimated 476,000 Americans annually.