Researchers and students from Chulabhorn International College of Medicine (CICM), Thammasat University, in collaboration with the Research Unit in Innovative Marine Biotechnology and Natural Bio-resources for Sustainable Health and Wellness and the Coastal Aquaculture Research and Development Division, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, have developed an innovative biotechnology platform that extracts bioactive PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide)-like compounds from sea grapes (Caulerpa lentillifera). Led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Napamanee Kornthong, the multidisciplinary team includes Montakarn Tamtin, Asst. Prof. Dr. Sineenart Songkumkrong, Dr. Piyapon Janpan, Dr. Siriporn Nonkhwao, Dr. Supawadee Duangprom, Asst. Prof. Dr. Prateep Amornruttanapun, Jarupa Charoenrit, and student researchers Nissayapawee Thantrakulmun, Chayanut Yanpiset, and Supatidaporn Tubson.
The innovation, entitled “Innovative Extraction of PDRN from Sea Grapes (Caulerpalentillifera) for Health and Cosmetic Applications,” utilizes a novel dual-system extraction process designed to preserve the biological activity of marine-derived biomolecules. By transforming locally cultivated and underutilized sea grape biomass into high-value bioactive ingredients, the technology supports sustainable resource utilization and contributes to Thailand’s bioeconomy and blue economy initiatives. Laboratory analyses demonstrated that the extracted PDRN possesses antioxidant properties and can be incorporated into regenerative skincare formulations, particularly sheet masks, to promote skin regeneration, enhance hydration and elasticity, support skin barrier repair, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. As a sustainable and cruelty-free alternative to animal-derived PDRN, this innovation offers promising applications in regenerative medicine, dermatology, and advanced cosmetic products.
The significance of this work extends beyond skincare. Environmental stressors such as UV radiation, pollution, and aging contribute to oxidative stress, collagen degradation, and impaired skin repair. The bioactive compounds derived from Caulerpa lentillifera address these challenges by supporting cellular regeneration and tissue recovery while promoting environmentally responsible use of marine resources. The project exemplifies how marine biotechnology can generate value-added health products from natural bioresources while reducing waste and fostering sustainable innovation.
This outstanding research and innovation received international recognition with a Gold Medal at The 51st International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva and an Honorable Mention Award from the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), highlighting its scientific excellence, innovation potential, and contribution to sustainable health and wellness technologies.
