Scientists find sea corals are source of sought-after ‘anti-cancer’ compound

The bottom of the ocean is full of mysteries but scientists have recently uncovered one of its best-kept secrets. For 25 years, drug hunters have been searching for the source of a natural chemical that had shown promise in initial studies for treating cancer. Now, researchers report that easy-to-find soft corals — flexible corals that resemble underwater plants — make the elusive compound.