Chemistry of a Disease (IMAGE) University of Iowa Caption University of Iowa chemists have unraveled the chemistry underlying how some deadly diseases, such as tuberculosis, produce thymine, a DNA base critical for these diseases to survive and reproduce. The team found these diseases use a different chemical pathway that involves an enzymatic relay system called flavin. The finding could help drug companies target the chemical reaction, rather than testing millions of compounds, to stop these diseases. Credit Amnon Kohen lab, University of Iowa Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.