TED-ED: The strange case of the cyclops sheep - Tien Nguyen

Farmers discovered sheep with a deformity, leading scientists to find that wild corn lilies caused the condition through a molecule named cyclopamine. This molecule interferes with the hedgehog gene pathway, crucial for normal development. Decades later, researchers linked cyclopamine to potential cancer treatments, although it had side effects. Related molecules were developed into approved skin cancer drugs, showcasing how a mystery led to medical advancements.

What was the initial reaction of the farmers when they discovered the cyclops sheep?

What did the researchers hypothesize about the cause of the cyclops sheep's deformity?

How did the scientists eventually identify cyclopamine as the cause of the defect?

What role does the hedgehog gene play in normal development according to the text?

What potential medical application did scientists propose for cyclopamine?