University of Minnesota Developing Cyanide Antidote

University of Minnesota researchers are developing a fast-acting antidote to the deadly poison cyanide.

The scientists say their treatment is effective on mice. They hope to start human trials within three years.

The body already is able to detoxify the small amounts of cyanide that occur naturally in pitted fruits and other foods. Researcher Steven Patterson says the new antidote works with the body's natural protections.

Concerns over the potential use of cyanide as a chemical weapon by terrorists led to the federal funding of the research. But firefighters might benefit most of all from the antidote because building fires produce large amount of the poison.

Researchers hope their antidote becomes part of a standard kit given to first responders.

Source: http://wkbt.com/