Squalene is a natural lipid belonging to the terpenoid family and a precursor of cholesterol biosynthesis. It is synthesized in humans and also in a wide array of organisms and substances, from sharks to olives and even bran, among others. Squalene is often used as an excipient in lubricants and cosmetics and also in the production of adjuvants (substances which enhance the effect of vaccines). It can be obtained from plants but is found in higher concentrations and in a purer form in fish, in particular in sharks’ livers.
