The NIH recently awarded $4 million to a group of Philippine and American scientists led by Oregon Health & Science University to aid in the discovery of new molecules and biofuels technology from marine mollusks for development in the Philippines. The project will concentrate its research in the Philippine archipelago whose waters are inhabited by an estimated 10,000 marine mollusk species, or about one-fifth of all the known species, and are regarded by marine biologists as the world's epicenter of marine biodiversity. Mollusks are among the most diverse of marine animals and include shelled creatures like snails, clams, and slugs.


During this week's podcast, Dr. Haygood, lead investigator of the study, explains why marine mollusks and associated microbes offer such promise for the discovery of new central nervous system, anticancer, and antimicrobial drugs as well as enzymes for cellulosic biofuels production. She provides additional key details about the project and discusses the roles of the The National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy, which are also sponsors of the grant.