Researchers find way to reduce secondary damage caused by spinal injuries . Crystal blue is similar to blue colored liquid used in soda , sports drinks . Only side effect of intravenous injection was that it made test rats blue . In August 2004 , scientists revealed how Adenosine triphosphate , which is known as ATP and described as the `` energy currency of life , '' surges to the spinal cord soon after injury occurs . Researchers are planning to apply to the FDA for permission for human tests .
Researchers find way to reduce secondary damage caused by spinal injuries . Crystal blue is similar to blue colored liquid used in soda , sports drinks . Only side effect of intravenous injection was that it made test rats blue . Researchers are planning to apply to the FDA for permission for human tests .