What is killing the Tasmanian devil? A virulent cancer is infecting them by the thousands  -- and unlike most cancers, it's contagious. Researcher Elizabeth Murchison tells us how she's fighting to save the Taz, and what she's learning about all cancers from this unusual strain. Contains disturbing images of facial cancer.

Elizabeth Murchison: Fighting a contagious cancer

Fighting a contagious cancer

A contagious cancer, unique in its ability to spread among Tasmanian devils, reveals cancer's capacity for evolution and transmission.

Researchers discover Tasmanian devil facial tumors are genetically identical, originating from a single animal and spread through biting.

Transmissible venereal tumor in dogs shows cancers can spread between individuals, hinting at the ancient origins and evolution of diseases.