Plymouth, UK – Ulva Sea Farms, a leading innovator in sustainable marine biotechnology, has announced groundbreaking progress in the use of seaweed extracts to combat prostate cancer and develop natural alternatives to synthetic antibiotics.

The company, based in Plymouth and led by founder Alec Watt, is exploring the powerful bioactive properties found in Ulva seaweed (commonly known as sea lettuce) and other macroalgae. Early research has shown significant potential for these natural compounds to support new approaches in healthcare.

“Over the last few decades, many of the bacteria, viruses and fungi that infect humans have evolved to become resistant to conventional antimicrobial medicines,” said Watt. “We’re now at the point where certain antimicrobials no longer work. This antimicrobial resistance makes it far more difficult to treat infections. Superbugs, for example, are bacteria that can survive almost all current antimicrobials and pose a serious threat to human health.”

Watt highlighted promising findings from recent prostate cancer trials. “Our seaweed extract has reduced the growth of prostate cancer cells and decreased levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein that is often elevated in prostate cancer patients,” he explained.

Ulva Sea Farms’ research focuses on the naturally occurring metabolites and bioactive compounds found in seaweed, including polysaccharides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, phlorotannins, phenolic compounds and carotenoids. These compounds are known for their antimicrobial properties and may offer a sustainable, nature-based alternative to synthetic antibiotics.

“There is still a long journey ahead,” Watt added, “but the potential to use seaweed to support prostate cancer research and to develop new, natural antimicrobial solutions is extremely promising.”
Ulva Sea Farms continues to expand its research efforts, positioning Plymouth as a hub for marine-based scientific innovation.

Contact:
Alec Watt
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ulvaseafarms.co.uk