As a marine biologist with a keen interest in the health and well-being of marine creatures, I can assure you that sharks, like all living organisms, are susceptible to illness. However, their robust immune systems and unique biological features contribute to their reputation for being less prone to diseases compared to many other species.

Sharks are ancient creatures that have evolved over 400 million years, and their bodies have adapted to various environmental pressures. One of the key factors that contribute to their apparent resistance to illness is their immune system. It is believed that shark tissues possess properties that can inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses, which is an area of ongoing research. This has piqued the interest of scientists who are investigating the potential applications of these properties in treating a range of medical conditions.

**Anticoagulant and Antibacterial Properties**
Shark tissues, particularly their liver oil, have been found to contain substances with anticoagulant properties. This means they can prevent blood clotting, which is a common issue in many diseases. The antibacterial properties of shark tissues are also of interest, as they may help to fight off infections. These substances are being studied for their potential use in treating conditions such as cystic fibrosis, where bacterial infections are a significant problem.

Cancer Resistance
Another fascinating aspect of shark biology is their apparent resistance to cancer. While it is not that sharks never get cancer, it is relatively rare in these creatures. The reasons behind this are not entirely understood, but it is thought to be related to their genetic makeup and the way their cells repair themselves. This has led to research into how sharks' cells manage to avoid the uncontrolled growth that characterizes cancer.

Viral Infections
Sharks can indeed get sick from viruses, but they seem to have a lower susceptibility compared to many other animals. The exact mechanisms that contribute to this are still being studied, but it is likely that their immune system plays a significant role. Some sharks have been observed to survive viral infections that would be fatal to other species.

Cystic Fibrosis
In relation to cystic fibrosis, sharks have been found to produce a peptide that has the potential to break down the thick mucus that characterizes this disease. This discovery has led to the development of a drug called Arikayce, which is derived from this peptide and is used to treat a specific form of the disease.

Conclusion
While sharks do get sick, their unique biological features and adaptations have made them less susceptible to many of the diseases that affect other animals. The study of sharks' immune systems and their resistance to certain conditions has opened up new avenues for medical research and could potentially lead to breakthroughs in human health.

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2. Sharks almost never get sick. --Shark tissue appears to have anticoagulant and antibacterial properties. Scientists are studying it in hopes of finding treatments for a number of medical conditions, including viruses, cystic fibrosis and some forms of cancer,-- explains Conservation International.Aug 9, 2013read more >>