Scientists have found that certain protein in sperm is a powerful antibacterial . . . so, is this the news men have been dreaming of . . . finally, a good reason to swallow?  Maybe not, at least not conclusively . . . but we can only hope . . .

Protein in sperm a powerful antibacterial.  U.S. scientists have found that a protein they discovered three years ago in the male reproductive tract is a potent antibacterial agent.  Scientists at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill said the protein, called DEFB118, along with protecting a male against invading bacteria, also may aid fertilization by protecting sperm from harmful organisms encountered in the female’s reproductive tract. DEFB118, which is found in the epididymis — a coiled duct through which sperm pass after leaving the testes — is part of a class of antibacterial proteins called defensins. In humans, defensins are produced in the skin, eyes, nose, ears, mouth, digestive system, lungs and reproductive tract.  The protein may be a broad-spectrum anti-microbial that attacks and destroys a variety of bacteria, scientists said, adding that further research is needed to determine its range of defenses.

Of course, we can only hope for more good news.  Okay, make this one of those posts that are firmly tongue in cheek . . . or elsewhere.