In an astonishing twist of fate, Bangkok’s notorious monitor lizards—often regarded as urban nuisances—may hold the key to groundbreaking cancer treatments. These prehistoric reptiles, thriving in the city’s Lumpini Park, are not just apex predators but potential heroes in the fight against disease.

Despite their fearsome reputation, monitor lizards are misunderstood. With razor-sharp claws and a tail that resembles a bullwhip, they’ve invaded human spaces, from convenience stores to homes, prompting a flurry of emergency calls, even more than fires. Locals often curse their presence, fearing their portrayal in media as grotesque scavengers. However, experts reveal that these creatures prefer solitude and pose little threat to humans.

Recent research from a leading Thai medical university has unveiled a shocking discovery: the blood of monitor lizards contains proteins that show promise in combating breast, skin, and liver cancers. Scientists are examining these reptiles, drawn to their resilience in polluted environments, to uncover potential antibacterial properties that could revolutionize medicine.

Yet, the survival of these misunderstood reptiles is at stake. Longtime resident Situda laments the decline in their numbers, as urban development and pollution encroach on their habitats. “When people build buildings, they barely survive,” she says, highlighting the dire situation these reptiles face in a rapidly changing city.

As Bangkok grapples with its complicated relationship with these creatures, the potential medical breakthroughs stemming from their unique biology could transform not only the perception of monitor lizards but also the future of cancer treatment. The clock is ticking—will we unlock the secrets of these urban dinosaurs before they vanish? Tony Chang, Al Jazeera, Bangkok.