How fish intestines could influence the future of skincare products? Cosmetics and skincare products often feature unusual ingredients, like snail mucin, valued for its moisturizing and antioxidant benefits. However, researchers have discovered something even more unconventional: molecules produced by bacteria found in fish intestines. In cell studies, these compounds demonstrated skin-brightening and anti-wrinkle effects, suggesting they could become key ingredients in future skincare formulations.
| Date | September 5, 2024 |
| Source | American Chemical Society |
| Summary | Researchers reported in ACS Omega may have discovered an even more unconventional ingredient: molecules produced by bacteria found in fish intestines. |
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How fish intestines could influence the future of skincare products
Although fish intestines might seem an unlikely source for cosmetic ingredients, it’s not unprecedented. Many significant drugs have been discovered in unexpected places—penicillin’s antibiotic properties were found after a moldy experiment, and the brain cancer drug Marizomib was derived from microbes in deep-sea sediments.
The gut microbes of the red seabream and blackhead seabream, found in the western Pacific Ocean, could be promising sources for new compounds. While these microbes were identified in 1992 and 2016, respectively, their compounds had not been studied until now.
Researchers Hyo-Jong Lee and Chung Sub Kim explored whether these bacteria produce any metabolites with cosmetic benefits. They identified 22 molecules from the gut bacteria of these fish and tested their ability to inhibit tyrosinase and collagenase enzymes in lab-grown mouse cells. Tyrosinase is linked to melanin production, which can cause hyperpigmentation, while collagenase breaks down collagen, leading to wrinkles. Three molecules from the red seabream bacteria effectively inhibited both enzymes without harming the cells, showing potential as anti-wrinkle and skin-brightening agents for future cosmetic use.
The research was supported by various organizations including the Marine Biotechnology Program, the National Research Foundation of Korea, and the Technology Development Program, among others.
FAQ:
1. What are animal-based ingredients in cosmetics?
Animal-based ingredients in cosmetics are substances derived from animals used for their various properties, such as moisturizing, coloring, or preserving. Common examples include lanolin (from sheep wool), collagen (from animal connective tissues), and carmine (a red dye made from crushed cochineal insects).
2. Why are animal-based ingredients used in cosmetics?
Animal-based ingredients are used because they can provide unique benefits such as natural moisturization, texture, and color. For example, lanolin is an effective emollient, while collagen helps improve skin elasticity.
3. Are animal-based cosmetics safe to use?
In general, animal-based ingredients used in cosmetics are considered safe when tested and approved by regulatory agencies. However, safety can depend on the specific ingredient and its source, so it’s important to check for any potential allergens or sensitivities.
4. Are there alternatives to animal-based ingredients in cosmetics?
Yes, there are many plant-based and synthetic alternatives to animal-based ingredients. For example, plant oils and butters can replace lanolin, and synthetic dyes can replace carmine. Advances in biotechnology have also led to the development of lab-grown collagen and other alternatives.
5. Are cosmetics with animal ingredients tested on animals?
The testing of finished cosmetic products on animals is a separate issue from the use of animal-derived ingredients. Some brands do test on animals, while others do not. It’s important to check a brand’s policy on animal testing if this is a concern for you.