Biodjinnetics
A short story about a genie granting a wish for the cure to cancer, with a twist highlighting the practical challenges of drug development and approval.
“In exchange for freeing me from this lamp, you may ask me one question,” said the genie.
“Not three?” I protested.
“Just one,” said the genie.
“What is the cure for cancer?” I asked.
“A compound called oxymercuriphine, found in the venom of the two-toed toad of Toronto,” said the genie. “Cures 100% of all cancers.”
“Huh,” I said. “Thank you. And here I was worrying you were one of those evil genies who would satisfy the letter of the wish while actually being totally useless.”
“Me?” said the genie, as he faded from view. “Never. That molecule is the genuine article and I wish you only the best of luck getting the fifty million dollars or so needed to push it through years of FDA clinical trials.”