The common housefly, one of the dirtiest insects known to man, may also be a source of elements essential for developing medicines to treat a number of human diseases, including cancer, reports Xinhua.

The notorious insect contains some powerful substances that are able to kill harmful bacteria and can be developed into anti-cancer medications, experts say.

As the population expands and food shortages worsen, protein and vitamin-rich fly larvae may become one of the main sources of protein for humans, said Professor Wang Mingfu of Shenyang Normal University.

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