Preface

Mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), which have the property of absorbing ultraviolet rays, are natural compounds that are applied in the cosmetics field as the active ingredient in sunscreens. In recent years, it has become clear that MAAs have various useful functions such as antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory action as well as ultraviolet absorption ability. Therefore, applications may be considered and developed not only in the cosmetics field but also in various fields such as pharmaceuticals and foods. Patents have already been filed by companies around the world, and cosmetic ingredients and skin care products containing MAAs have been launched on the market.

This book details the molecular structures, activities, and application examples of MAAs and is intended to be used as an introductory book for undergraduate and graduate students in science or as a handbook for researchers. I aim to make the descriptions as clear as possible. In the text, references to academic research are cited as appropriate. I hope that this book will help to deepen the knowledge of MAAs.

This book is based on an English translation of my book Mycosporine-like Amino Acids Nyumon, published by Sankeisha in Japan in 2021. I was able to take the opportunity to review and remake the full text of the book and to incorporate the latest information. I would like to thank all the people involved in the production of this book. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Rungaroon Waditee-Sirisattha of Chulalongkorn University, a collaborator who has been conducting research on cyanobacteria and MAAs for many years.