Study uncovers anti-aging skin compounds derived from blood bacteria
A recent scientific study has identified promising anti-aging and anti-inflammatory compounds derived from a rare blood-dwelling bacterium, Paracoccus sanguinis, offering potential breakthroughs in future skincare treatments.
Published in the Journal of Natural Products, the study focused on bacterial metabolites known as indoles, which are already recognized for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties.
Researchers cultured the bacterium for three days, then used advanced techniques — including spectroscopy, isotope labeling, and computer modeling — to analyze the compounds it produced. They identified 12 indole-based molecules, six of which were previously unknown.
When tested on human skin cells exposed to high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) — molecules that contribute to skin aging and inflammation — three compounds (including two new ones) demonstrated the ability to reduce oxidative stress, suppress inflammatory proteins, and protect collagen integrity.
Scientists say these early results highlight the potential of blood-derived microbial metabolites as novel agents in anti-aging skincare. Further research is underway to explore their safety and effectiveness in real-world applications.
