An early-stage biotech firm, Gadusol Laboratories is using proprietary Oregon State University synthetic biology technology to produce natural sunscreen compounds found in marine life. From the premise that fish and plant life have been longtime protected from sun's harmful UV rays, and that these UV-absorbing compounds jave been known for some time to be effective, no means had previously existed whereby economically to produce these compounds for human use. Initially funded by VertueLab - a climate impact accelerator- Gadusol personnel are now employing these compounds: natural, innovative sunscreen ingredients that are sustainably sourced, environmentally safe, provide supplemental skin/health benefits, and offer protection against both UV-A and UV-B rays. In mid-July 2022, it was announced that for an undisclosed amount Gadusol Laboratories had been acquired by Boston-based Arcaea, a beauty industry firm.
