A recent study conducted by a research group at Flinders University in South Australia has revealed the potential anti-aging qualities of extracts from indigenous South Australian seaweeds. South Australia boasts a remarkably high diversity of seaweed species, with around 1500 described, of which approximately 62 percent are unique to the region.
The research focused on extracts from three specific South Australian brown seaweeds: Ecklonia Radiata, Cystophora moniliformis, and Cystophora Siliquosa. The study found that these extracts had a positive impact on skin health, particularly in relation to collagen levels and the protection of collagen and elastin, two vital proteins that contribute to skin structure.
Collagen serves as a foundational component for bones, teeth, muscles, skin, joints, and connective tissue, while elastin is responsible for providing skin with its elasticity and strength. Both these proteins are often promoted by the beauty industry as essential for maintaining youthful and healthy skin.
Professor Wei Zhang, a member of the research team, highlighted the significance of the findings. The study demonstrated that extracts from South Australia’s brown seaweeds not only stimulated collagen growth but also inhibited glycation, a process known to lead to the deterioration of collagen and elastin.
Glycation is a crucial target for anti-aging strategies, and previous anti-glycation agents have had limited success in making a substantial impact on skin aging. Professor Zhang expressed excitement about the discovery, stating that it opens the door to the development of more potent anti-glycation extracts derived from brown seaweed.
The researchers believe that their findings will contribute to bridging knowledge gaps and facilitating the sustainable development of brown seaweed-based skincare products, both in topical and supplement forms. A patent related to this discovery has been filed, and the research team is actively seeking investors and industry partners for potential collaborations to further commercialize this breakthrough.
Source: The Fish Site
