According to the BBC, a researcher at the University of Wisconsin has created a “safe” and “harmless” version of the deadly Ebola virus.
Yoshihiro Kawaoka believes he has created just such a version of the virus, by taking out a gene that normally allows it to replicate in cells. The hope is that having a a less apocalyptically lethal (i.e. “safe”) version of the virus will allow labs with lower biosecurity levels work on the disease.
According to the BBC: “Not everyone in Ebola research is convinced.” Well thank the great simian in the sky for that! A well-regarded researcher in the field says she would not be comfortable using it until it was thoroughly tested on live monkeys at high doses.
May I also humbly suggest that even if it passes muster, it not be called “safe”, “harmless”, “cuddly” or “cute.”
You may have other suggestions in the comments. Also, I’m not sure if these dudes are “harmless” either. Full BBC story here.