Researchers from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at University of California claim to have found a "nuisance" seaweed that is destroying coral reefs in Hawaii by releasing a chemical. They say the chemical has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties.
The seaweed is packed with tiny photosynthetic organisms called "cyanobacterium" which also produce compounds that have shown promise in combating bacterial infections.
Soon, a pill made from the seaweed could one day help treat the painful joint disorder, the 'Daily Mail' reported.
Tests on this chemical revealed some surprising results -- the seaweed was generating natural products known as honaucins, which had potent anti-inflammation and bacteria -controlling properties.
Lead researcher Prof William Gerwick said: "In different arenas these compounds could be helpful, such as treating chronic inflammatory conditions for which we currently don't have really good medicines."
Team member Prof Jennifer Smith wrote in the 'Chemistry & Biology' journal: These organisms have been on the planet for millions of years and so it is not surprising that they have evolved numerous strategies for competing with neighboring species, including chemical warfare.
"Several species of cyanobacteria and algae are known to produce novel compounds, many that have promising use in drug development for human and other uses."
There is currently no cure for arthritis.
Prof Gerwick said: "I think this finding is a nice illustration of how we need to look more deeply in our environment because even nuisance pests, as it turns out, are not just pests."
