Exploring Novel Natural Products from Marine Organisms

Chuo University and Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) have embarked on a groundbreaking joint research initiative aimed at discovering unique natural products from marine organisms. The project aims to uncover previously unknown substances that could have valuable applications for humanity, including potential new medicinal resources, by studying marine organisms attached to ship hulls and other surfaces.

Natural products have long been instrumental in the development of revolutionary medicines, much like the discovery of penicillin. The vast diversity of marine organisms presents a promising opportunity to identify novel natural compounds with significant potential benefits for humankind.

Since 2023, NYK and the Iwasaki Laboratory at Chuo University’s Department of Applied Chemistry have been collaborating on a pilot project to collect and analyze marine organisms attached to ship hulls. This collaboration led to the discovery of a previously unknown natural substance, the effects of which were further studied in partnership with Professor NOZAKI Tomoyoshi’s research group at The University of Tokyo’s Graduate School of Medicine.

Initial findings indicated that the substance demonstrated inhibitory effects on the growth of Rhodesian trypanosome, the pathogen responsible for African sleeping sickness, a neglected tropical disease. This significant discovery was presented at the annual meeting of the Chemical Society of Japan in March 2025 by a student from the Iwasaki Laboratory.

Building upon the success of the pilot project, Chuo University and NYK have formalized a five-year joint research agreement. The Iwasaki Laboratory will continue to collect marine organisms, explore unknown natural substances, and evaluate their potential applications, while NYK will facilitate the collection of these marine organisms.

This collaborative research initiative holds tremendous promise for uncovering new natural products with diverse applications, potentially leading to the development of innovative medicines and treatments. By harnessing the rich biodiversity of marine organisms, Chuo University and NYK are at the forefront of discovering the next generation of natural compounds for the benefit of humanity.