Marine Pharmacology Project
Unlocking Marine Science for Global Health
Beneath the Busselton Jetty lies a vibrant ecosystem and living laboratory of more than 300 species, including marine sponges that produce extraordinary chemical compounds.
The Marine Pharmacology Project, led by the Busselton Jetty Environment Foundation, in partnership with the University of Western Australia (UWA), Western Australian Museum, the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and the Biota Pipeline – explores whether these natural compounds could one day provide breakthrough medical treatments to transform human health.
From Beneath the Jetty to the Laboratory
Busselton Jetty collaborated with UWA and WA Museum to secure scientific collection permits, and to design an environmentally appropriate collection methodology.
Cataloguing Biodiversity – 30 sponge samples, collected by the Busselton Jetty dive team, were formally identified at the WA Museum Research & Collection Centre, providing the first official record of sponge species living beneath the Jetty.
Laboratory Analysis – Associate Professor Gavin Flematti and his UWA team processed the sponges into assays, isolating bioactive compounds with unique chemical properties.
Medical Testing – These assays were then delivered to Emeritus Professor George Yeoh’s laboratory at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, where they are undergoing testing against liver cancer cells.
The Biota Pipeline: Accelerating Discoveries into Treatments
The project is now part of the Biota Pipeline, a world-class initiative based at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. The Biota Pipeline was created to accelerate the journey from medical discovery to treatment, ensuring that promising compounds found from Western Australia’s rich biodiversity can be tested, developed, and potentially transformed into medicines faster than ever before.
Read more about the Biota Pipeline HERE
Support Western Australian Marine Research
Help us unlock life-changing discoveries from beneath Busselton Jetty. By supporting the Busselton Jetty Environment Foundation, you’re backing vital marine research, conservation, and education programs.
- Donate today – Your gift directly supports marine monitoring, research, and community outreach.
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