For millions of years, seaweeds and tinyeConfig microscopic organisms have survived under harsh sunlight in shallow waters where ultraviolet rays are intense. Unlike humans, they cannot move into the shade, so they developed their own chemical protection.
Scientists have long known that these tiny ocean organisms produce special natural compounds that act like sunscreen. Now, new research suggests these same substances may also help human health in surprising ways, including supporting skin health and possibly helping control blood pressure.
These compounds are called mycosporine-like amino acids, or MAAs. They are made by algae and cyanobacteria, which are tiny living things found in oceans, lakes, and even hot springs. MAAs work by absorbing harmful ultraviolet light before it can damage cells.
Because of this, scientists and cosmetic companies have been studying them as safer, nature-based alternatives to artificial sunscreen ingredients, some of which may harm marine life or irritate human skin.
A new study published online on January 19, 2026, in the journal Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry has revealed that MAAs may have more benefits than previously thought.
The research was led by Professor Hakuto Kageyama from Meijo University in Japan. His team discovered that these natural molecules can block a key enzyme involved in controlling blood pressure, suggesting they could one day be used in foods, supplements, or skincare products that support overall health.
The enzyme they studied is called angiotensin-converting enzyme, or ACE. This enzyme plays a central role in regulating blood pressure by controlling how tightly blood vessels narrow.
Many common medicines for high blood pressure work by blocking ACE. Finding natural substances that have a similar effect is important because they may offer gentler options with fewer side effects.
The researchers focused on two specific MAAs that have slightly different chemical shapes. One, called porphyra-334, is commonly found in edible seaweeds that people already eat in many parts of the world.
The other, called GlcHMS326, is a less common version discovered in cyanobacteria from a hot spring in Thailand. Even small differences in the structure of these molecules can change how they behave inside the body, so the team wanted to compare them carefully.
After extracting and purifying the compounds from their natural sources, the scientists tested how stable they were under heat and light. They also studied how the molecules acted in several biological tests that are often used to estimate possible health effects.
One important test measured antioxidant activity. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals. Free radicals are linked to aging and many diseases.
The researchers found that GlcHMS326 worked as a strong antioxidant, but its effect developed slowly, suggesting it may provide long-lasting protection rather than quick action. Porphyra-334 showed weaker antioxidant power.
Another set of experiments looked at glycation, a process in which sugar sticks to proteins and reduces their flexibility. Glycation contributes to skin aging and some chronic illnesses. In this case, porphyra-334 performed better at preventing this kind of protein damage.
The team also tested whether the compounds could block collagenase, an enzyme that breaks down collagen. Collagen is the protein that keeps skin firm and smooth. When collagen breaks down, wrinkles form. GlcHMS326 showed stronger ability to slow this process, suggesting it might help protect skin from aging.
Perhaps the most surprising finding was that both compounds reduced ACE activity in laboratory tests. This is the first time scientists have reported that MAAs can influence this enzyme.
Although the effect was moderate and tested outside the human body, it opens the door to future research on whether foods rich in these compounds or products containing them could support heart health.
The researchers stress that more studies are needed to see if these benefits occur in real people and what amounts would be safe and effective. Still, the discovery highlights how nature often hides powerful substances in unexpected places. Seaweeds, which many people already eat, may contain helpful compounds that science is only beginning to understand.
This research also shows how closely connected the natural world and human health can be. A survival tool developed by tiny ocean organisms to protect themselves from sunlight may one day help protect human skin and hearts as well. Scientists hope that further work will lead to new natural products that are both effective and environmentally friendly.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about vitamins impacts on high blood pressure people need to know, and how to manage high blood pressure and diabetes with healthy foods.
For more health information, please see recent studies about the best and worst foods for high blood pressure, and modified traditional Chinese cuisine can lower blood pressure.
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