When it comes to the fight against the novel coronavirus, we need all hands on deck and it turns out there may be some toes on deck as well. An unlikely species is being investigated to see if it could be a vital ally with humans in the fight against COVD-19. Llamas, and other camelids, produce a specialized type of antibodies which are known as nanobodies. Scientists are investigating if those same nanobodies could help prevent the novel coronavirus from entering a host cell. Does this research have real teeth? Does it have potential to work?

Dr. Robert Callan - a professor at Colorado State University Livestock Medicine and Surgery Service - not only discusses whether this research has promise, but we also discuss the potential challenges the researchers may face, basics of camelid medicine, why llamas spit, and so many other fun facts about camelids. You're not going to want to miss this conversation. Although it may not usurp a dog's position as man's best friend. It may come pretty close.

EPISODE NOTES: The Llama: Our New Best Friends in The Fight Against the Novel Coronavirus