Algae: nature's sunscreen

Algae are a diverse group of photosynthetic organisms that have existed on Earth for billions of years. Fossil records show that algae-like organisms first appeared on Earth over 3 billion years ago, making them some of the earliest known life forms on the planet. In the 1960s, biologists discovered that certain marine organisms, such as algae, bacteria, and corals, can protect themselves from the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight by producing compounds called mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs). MAAs are small, water-soluble molecules that can absorb UV radiation and dissipate its energy as heat, thus protecting the organism's cellular components from damage. MAAs are produced by a wide variety of marine organisms, including phytoplankton, macroalgae, and corals, and their production is influenced by factors such as light intensity, nutrient availability, and temperature. In addition to providing protection from UV radiation, MAAs may also have other functions, such as serving as antioxidants or as a source of nitrogen or carbon for the organism. Research into the production and function of MAAs has increased in recent years due to concerns about the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems. As UV radiation levels increase due to depletion of the ozone layer and changes in climate, understanding the mechanisms by which marine organisms protect themselves from UV radiation may be important for predicting and mitigating the effects of these changes on marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. ☀️

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