Mycosporine-Like Amino Acids from Red Macroalgae: UV-Photoprotectors with Potential Cosmeceutical Applications

Abstract

Macroalgae belong to a diverse group of organisms that could be exploited for biomolecule application. Among the biocompounds found in this group, mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) are highlighted mainly due to their photoprotection, antioxidant properties, and high photo and thermo-stability, which are attractive characteristics for the development of cosmeceutical products. Therefore, here we revise published data about MAAs, including their biosynthesis, biomass production, extraction, characterization, identification, purification, and bioactivities. MAAs can be found in many algae species, but the highest concentrations are found in red macroalgae, mainly in the order Bangiales, as Porphyra spp. In addition to the species, the content of MAAs can vary depending on environmental factors, of which solar radiation and nitrogen availability are the most influential. MAAs can confer photoprotection due to their capacity to absorb ultraviolet radiation or reduce the impact of free radicals on cells, among other properties. To extract these compounds, different approaches can be used. The efficiency of these methods can be evaluated with characterization and identification using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), associated with other apparatus such as mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Therefore, the data presented in this review allow a broad comprehension of MAAs and show perspectives for their inclusion in cosmeceutical products.

Fast and Efficient Separation of Eleven Mycosporine-like Amino Acids by UHPLC-DAD and Their Quantification in Diverse Red Algae

“…However, some terrestrial green algae exhibited MAA concentrations very comparable to those of marine red algae [8]; and they have also been confirmed in cyanobacteria [1,5,6]. Their extremely high molar extinction coefficients between 310 to 360 nm [9], together with pronounced antioxidant capacity [10,11], render them ideal for the treatment of diseases induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) [5,12] and UV radiation [6,13]. Accordingly, they are suitable for sunscreens [14], as indicated by commercial products such as Helioguard ® 365, a formulation composed of enriched algal extracts with porphyra-334 and shinorine.…”

Differential Responses to UV-A Stress Recorded in Carotenogenic Microalgae Haematococcus rubicundus, Bracteacoccus aggregatus, and Deasonia sp.

“…Most likely, absorbance at this wavelength together with shape of the spectra could be attributed to the accumulation of MAA. These compounds, widely distributed among microalgae, are well-known as efficient screening agents [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 18 , 19 , 20 ]. Their protective role, especially against UV, has been shown in vivo [ 4 , 18 , 64 ].…”

“…These compounds, widely distributed among microalgae, are well-known as efficient screening agents [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 18 , 19 , 20 ]. Their protective role, especially against UV, has been shown in vivo [ 4 , 18 , 64 ]. As a rule, MAA synthesis is UV-inducible [ 19 , 20 , 22 ].…”

“…Nevertheless, it might only be a side effect because the cultures were irradiated by UV-A in the range of 380–415 nm (see Materials and Methods), whereas the absorption band of putative MAA is located in the range of 300–350 nm. However, MAA also have antioxidant effect [ 4 , 18 ] so they could contribute to ROS detoxication. Furthermore, a pronounced increase of the culture extract absorption was observed at 280 nm in Deasonia sp.…”

“…Particularly, photolyases are activated by radiation in the range of 370–450 nm [ 2 ]. MAAs and carotenoids absorb radiation in the UV-A region of the spectra [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 ]. UV-A-protective mechanisms also include oligomerization of PSII RC and LHCII [ 10 ].…”