Healing waters
Last May, researchers from Florida Atlantic University took a break from their laboratories and spent 12 sun-filled days diving off the coast of Florida. It wasn’t a dream vacation. Instead, the researchers collected microscopic samples of different marine invertebrates.
Exploring coral reefs off Florida’s east coast, the Keys and the Bahamas, they searched for animals in hopes of finding tomorrow’s cure for disorders such as arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer and heart attacks. After the dives, the researchers brought the invertebrates back to their labs so they could isolate the chemicals that could cure diseases.
“We found some new areas that researchers hadn’t been to,” says Russell Kerr, one of the 20 researchers aboard the expedition vessels. “They were very rich in coral and had good biological activities.”
A Suncoaster vessel owned and operated by the Florida Institute of Oceanography scoured the seas for the invertebrates that could change the face of medicine. The ship provides two labs, as well as deck space where scientists sort samples.
Scientists use a freezer to preserve the important samples. The collection process also involves using underwater submersibles and scuba equipment. It is the only submersible of its kind in the state, and only a handful of them in the United States.