National Institute of Oceanography develops melanin from bacteria

The National Institute of Oceanography, Goa has developed a process for manufacture of Melanin, a skin-protecting pigment, from sponge-related bacteria. 

This product finds application in Non cytotoxic UV protectant with application in many products including sun screens, sunglasses, computer screens, tannin agents and organic dyes and biocompatible electronics. The sponge associated bacterium produces melanin extracellular at a concentration of 50 mgml^-1. The melanin is non cytotoxic to animal cells up to a concentration of 200 ppm while showing antioxidant activities at 2.5 ppm.

NIO says it is still exploring commercialization possibilities with the help of CSIR-Tech Pvt. Ltd. Bacterial culture medium, large-scale fermentors, is the major raw material needed. 

For further information, contact:

The Director,
CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography (NIO),
Dona Paula, Goa, INDIA - 403004
Tel: +91 832-2450200, Fax: +91 832-2450602,
Email: director@nio.org, www.nio.org