Colorado: In an unusual study, scientists have observed that pythons (a type of snake) may help in treating heart diseases such as cardiac fibrosis.

Researchers have noted that after consuming their prey, a python’s heart expands by 25% within the first 24 hours. Eventually, the heart tissues soften, and the pulse volume doubles.

The researchers explained that this process involves numerous specific genes becoming active and boosting the snake’s metabolism. Two weeks after digestion, all systems return to normal, with the heart remaining somewhat larger and stronger.

According to CU Boulder researchers, this process could potentially lead to the development of new treatments for human heart diseases like cardiac fibrosis, which involves the thickening of heart tissues.

Senior author Leslie Lane VanD said that pythons can survive for months or even a year without eating and can consume more than their body weight without adversely affecting their hearts.