Eumelanin is the major pigment responsible for human skin color. This black/brown pigment is localized in membrane-bound organelles (melanosomes) found in specialized cells (melanocytes) in the basal layer of the epidermis. This review highlights the steps involved in melanogenesis in the epidermis ...

Melanin pigment plays a critical role in the protection against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation and other environmental stressors. It is produced by the enzymatic transformation of L-tyrosine to dopaquinone and subsequent chemical and biochemical reactions resulting in the formation of ...

The presence of melanocytes in the oral epithelium is a well-established fact, but their physiological functions are not well defined. Melanin provides protection from environmental stressors such as ultraviolet radiation and reactive oxygen species; and melanocytes function as stress-sensors having...