Abstract: A process is provided for preparing an L-.alpha.-amino acid from a 5(4H)-oxazolone precursor. The precursor is subjected to a two-step process sequence in which the precursor is first contacted with a methanolytically active lipase in the presence of methanol in a non-polar solvent to enantioselectively solvolyze the precursor and produce an intermediate optically active methyl ester of the desired .alpha.-amino acid. This ester is then contacted with a protease in the presence of water to enantioselectively cleave the ester and accomplish an enzymatic kinetic resolution to prepare the product L-.alpha.-amino acid in high optical purity.

Abstract: Compositions containing 19-nor-vitamin D compounds in a suitable carrier and methods employing such compositions are disclosed for cosmetic uses in the treatment of various skin conditions such as lack of adequate skin firmness, wrinkles, dermal hydration and sebum secretion. Various formulations of the compositions including creams, lotions and ointments are disclosed for use topically, orally or parenterally in accordance with this invention.