Galanthus nivalis can be helpful in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, though it is not a cure. Snowdrops contain also an active lectin or agglutinin named GNA for "Galanthus nivalis agglutinin". Potatoes have been genetically modified with the GNA gene. In 1998 Árpád Pusztai said in an interview on a World in Action programme that his group had observed damage to the intestines and immune systems of rats fed the genetically modified potatoes. He also said "If I had the choice I would certainly not eat it", and that "I find it's very unfair to use our fellow citizens as guinea pigs".
Chlamydomonas nivalis temperatures rise above 30 °C. It is a true snow alga because it performs better in low temperatures than warm temperatures. Due to "C. nivalis"’ ability to perform photosynthesis well from cold to moderate temperatures, this species is considered a cryotolerant mesophile rather than a cryophile. This organism is also very resilient as they can also survive in warm soil for weeks. They can also tolerate dryness and room temperature for as long as 6 months. Fungi, worms, bacteria, and viruses have been found to associate with or live in the same environment as "C. nivalis". Encapsulated rod-shaped gram-negative bacteria