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Melanin (/ ˈ m ɛ l ə n ɪ n / ⓘ; from Ancient Greek μέλας (mélas) ' black, dark ') is a family of biomolecules organized as oligomers or polymers, which among other functions provide the pigments of many organisms. [1] Melanin pigments are produced in a specialized group of cells known as melanocytes.
Melanocytes are melanin-producing neural crest-derived [3] cells located in the bottom layer (the stratum basale) of the skin's epidermis, the middle layer of the eye (the uvea), [4] the inner ear, [5] vaginal epithelium, [6] meninges, [7] bones, [8] and heart found in many mammals and birds. [9] Melanin is a dark pigment primarily responsible ...
A melanosome is an organelle found in animal cells and is the site for synthesis, storage and transport of melanin, the most common light-absorbing pigment found in the animal kingdom. Melanosomes are responsible for color and photoprotection in animal cells and tissues.
Micrograph of keratinocytes, basal cells and melanocytes in the epidermis Keratinocytes (stained green) in the skin of a mouse. Keratinocytes are the primary type of cell found in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. In humans, they constitute 90% of epidermal skin cells. [1]
The amount and distribution of melanin pigment in the epidermis is the main reason for variation in skin color in Homo sapiens. Melanin is found in the small melanosomes, particles formed in melanocytes from where they are transferred to the surrounding keratinocytes. The size, number, and arrangement of the melanosomes vary between racial ...
The epidermis is regenerated from the stem cells found in the basal layer that develop into the corneum. The epidermis itself is devoid of blood supply and draws its nutrition from its underlying dermis. [5] Its main functions are protection, absorption of nutrients, and homeostasis.
This is an accepted version of this page This is the latest accepted revision, reviewed on 2 March 2025. "Skin pigmentation" redirects here. For animal skin pigmentation, see Biological pigment. Extended Coloured family from South Africa showing some spectrum of human skin coloration Human skin color ranges from the darkest brown to the lightest hues. Differences in skin color among ...
Eumelanin is the dominant form of melanin found in human skin. Eumelanin protects tissues and DNA from the radiation damage of UV light. Melanin is produced in specialized cells called melanocytes, which are found at the lowest level of the epidermis. [57] Melanin is produced inside small membrane-bound packages called melanosomes. People with ...