Unravelling the Photoprotection Properties of Mycosporine Amino Acid Motifs

Abstract

Photoprotection from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure is a key problem in modern society. Mycosporine like amino acids found in fungi, cyanobacteria, macroalgae, phytoplankton and humans, are already presenting a promising form of natural photoprotection in sunscreen formulations. Using time-resolved transient electronic absorption spectroscopy and guided by complementary ab initio calculations, we help to unravel how the core structures of these molecules perform under UV irradiation. Through such detailed insight into the relaxation mechanisms of these ubiquitous molecules, we hope to inspire new thinking in developing next generation sun protecting molecules.