This image provided by the National Institute of Biological Resources shows 16 distinct types of archaea.
SEOUL, May 18 (Korea Bizwire) — A South Korean research team has discovered previously unrecorded microorganisms called archaea that possess the ability to counteract the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays and exhibit antioxidation properties.
A research team from the National Institute of Biological Resources and Incheon National University on Wednesday reported the detection of 16 distinct types of archaea within the country that exhibit resilience against ultraviolet rays.
The newly detected archaea are classified as extremely halophilic, as they thrive in environments with salinity levels exceeding 20 percent.
These archaea produce a red-colored organic pigment called bacterioruberin, which serves as a defense mechanism against the damaging impact of ultraviolet rays and moisture loss.
Unlike the lycopene in tomatoes and beta-carotene in carrots, bacterioruberin possesses a more potent antioxidation effect and offers enhanced protection against the adverse effects of ultraviolet rays.
The institute intends to officially register these newly discovered archaea on the National List of Species of Korea and conduct further research to explore their potential application in cosmetic products.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
