Peruvian plant extract softens decay

A compound extracted from a Peruvian fruit can soften "dental decay" so that it can be removed with hand tools, according to a report on Livinginperu.com.

Researchers at the Interdisciplinary Center for Research and Innovaction at the Catholic University of Santa Maria developed the material from an enzyme in the papaya arequipeña (Carica pubescens), the report said.

The report credited dentist Zaida Moya, who learned of the plant's properties in the course of her doctoral dissertation in 2006.

The work was completed in early October, with the cooperation of the Quimivet SRL and co-financing from the Fund for Innovation, Science and Technology, which handles funds granted by the Inter-American Development Bank. A container costing 36 nuevos soles ($12) provides about 20 applications, according to the report.