Current methods of lymphoma treatment are beginning to run into obstacles, such as drug resistance, making treatment more difficult. A new study coming out of the Hashemite University in Jordan is showing promising signs that seaweed will provide new and better treatment possibilities.

“Some forms of B-cell lymphoma are especially resistant to standard treatment and thus new therapies are needed,” said Mohammad Irhimeh, Ph.D., one of the researchers. “In this study, we looked at a new treatment strategy using novel active compounds derived from a natural source — seaweed.”

Researchers found that seaweed extract had an inhibitory effect on the growth of lymphoma cell lines, while leaving the control healthy cells intact. The scientists also saw a prevalent pattern of activity in the genes that are linked with cell death, in lymphoma. More research is planned for seaweed and lymphoma.