Dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) is a naturally occurring compound found in marine environments, particularly in phytoplankton. It plays a crucial role in the ocean's sulfur cycle and serves as an osmolyte, helping organisms to cope with environmental stress. DMSP is also a precursor to dimethylsulfide (DMS), a gas that contributes to cloud formation and climate regulation. When released into the atmosphere, DMS can influence weather patterns and has implications for global warming, making it an important subject of study in environmental science.