Nuclear power is amongst the most controversial topics debated at present. Supporters of the use nuclear power argue that it is a viable source for alternative energy. Given the drastic state of the planet's fossil fuel reserves, nuclear energy is a sustainable energy source that produces minimal air pollution, reduces carbon emissions and increases energy security.
Nevertheless, critics of nuclear power believe that the use of this energy source post more risks than benefits for people. It can be used for weapons that can aid terrorism. Moreover, nuclear accidents involving nuclear plant have been prevalent in the last few years. This includes the devastating 2011 nuclear incident in Fukushima. The accident produced 37 non-fatal casualties.
Several Fukushima workers have since been tapped to do the clean-up following the disaster. Fortunately for them, scientist from Israel recently unveiled a groundbreaking technology that would keep these worker safe from radiation sickness.
Israeli Biotech firm Pluristem Therapeutics recently showcased their placenta-based cell therapy injection that can reverse the effects of exposure to high dosage of radiation.
"We've been investigating the placenta for the last decade and we have discovered that the placenta cells have unique properties that can help the body to recover after exposure to high level of radiation. We are injecting these cells to the bodies' muscles...that will help the bone marrow to recover after radiation" explained Dr. Esther Lukasiewicz Vice President of Medical and Clinical Affairs for Pluristem Therapeutics.
The company has since revealed that their treatment has been tested on different levels of radiation and in those tests their therapy proved to be effective with a 70% mortality rate. Pluristem therapeutics president, Yaky Yanay, have since gushed about their placenta-based breakthrough explaining how the treatment is accessible and the farthest from complicated.
"It will be very easy to use, off-the-shelf and readily available," quipped Yanay.
