UTMB’s Norbert Herzog and David Niesel report on the oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico and its impact on human health. “The hydrocarbon in the oil can have a damaging effect on ocean life. But there is a way to actually get rid of it with a process called bioremediation. While bacteria that can live off oil naturally occur in seawater, scientists have genetically engineered bacteria to become even more efficient at ‘eating’ the hydrocarbon components in oil. These are converted to biomass, which enters the food chain. These bacteria are harmless to humans and sea life and can be easily applied by spraying. Here’s another example of fundamental biological studies helping us with problems that affect our world. It’s why basic research needs to valued and continued.” Medical Discovery News airs locally at 10 a.m. Saturday on KUHF.