Scientists Investigate Mistletoe's Potential as Surgical Glue

Researchers at the University of Essex are exploring the adhesive properties of mistletoe berries, aiming to develop eco-friendly medical and industrial applications.

Mistletoe berries contain a sticky substance called viscin, historically used as a natural adhesive in birdlime and even British 'sticky bombs' during WWII.
The project, led by Dr. Nick Aldred and Dr. Pallavi Singh, focuses on growing mistletoe in controlled environments and studying its genetic makeup.
The research aims to create a high-quality, eco-friendly surgical glue, addressing gaps in understanding the plant's adhesive mechanisms and scalability.
Mistletoe has the largest genome of any UK-sequenced plant, with potential implications for biotechnology and broader scientific understanding.
Though in early stages, the study could pave the way for sustainable adhesives inspired by nature, benefiting both medicine and industry.