Science Centres: Fisheries

 

NIWA biotechnologist Debbie Hulston at work screening samples. (Photo: Alan Blacklock, NIWA)

NIWA’s biotechnology team continues to make steady progress in its quest to add value to fish waste by identifying ingredients for use in the cosmetics industry.

From a vast initial screening process, three novel bioactive products have been identified as having excellent potential, either as UV protectants or skin anti-ageing compounds. Rather than simply acting as UV filters or screens on the skin’s surface, the team is now convinced that, under certain conditions, the natural ingredients in these fish-derived products can penetrate into skin cells, providing protection against the factors that damage cells. This unique mode of action within cells results in responses such as increased cell survival, or protection against UV radiation.

The next exciting phase of research involves human skin trials, anticipated to be underway by the end of 2007. Here, NIWA is combining forces with AgResearch, taking advantage of their expertise in bioprocessing and product formulation, developed during work with wool extractives. Ngāi Tahu Seafood Ltd has been involved with this work supplying fish waste and bycatch for testing.