Ultraviolet B radiation absorption/blocking

Ultraviolet B radiation absorption/blocking is a physical and biological process where various endogenous and exogenous chromophores absorb or shield the skin, eyes, and cells from the damaging effects of UVB photons (280–315 nm). Chromophores such as DNA, aromatic amino acids, melanin, 7-dehydrocholesterol, and trans-urocanic acid absorb UVB, leading to photochemical reactions that can cause DNA damage, immunosuppression, or, in the case of 7-dehydrocholesterol, vitamin D synthesis. Exogenous compounds, typically used as sunscreens, block or absorb UVB to prevent sunburn, DNA mutations, inflammation, immune alterations, and skin cancers. While essential for protection, too much blocking can reduce vitamin D formation. 'Ultraviolet B radiation absorption/blocking' describes a process rather than a single molecular entity, involving interactions of several molecules but is not itself a canonical drug target or receptor.

Other names

UVB absorptionUVB blockingUVB photoprotectionUltraviolet B absorptionUltraviolet B blocking

Physical blocking of UVB photons (e.g., by mineral sunscreens like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide); Absorption and dissipation of UVB energy (e.g., via organic sunscreen molecules, melanin, 7-dehydrocholesterol); Inhibition of UVB-induced DNA damage; Prevention of UVB-triggered inflammation and immune suppression