Melanocytic

Melanocytic refers to cells that produce melanin, a pigment responsible for the color of skin, hair, and eyes. Melanocytic cells are primarily found in the skin but are also present in other parts of the body.

Overview

Melanocytic cells, also known as melanocytes, are derived from the neural crest during embryonic development. They migrate to various parts of the body, including the skin, hair follicles, eyes, and inner ear. In the skin, melanocytes are located in the stratum basale, the deepest layer of the epidermis.

Melanocytes produce melanin through a process called melanogenesis. The type and amount of melanin produced by melanocytes determine the color of the skin, hair, and eyes. Melanin also plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from ultraviolet radiation.

Function

The primary function of melanocytes is to produce melanin. Melanin is packaged into melanosomes, which are then transferred to keratinocytes, the predominant cells in the skin. This transfer of melanosomes provides a protective pigment shield above the keratinocyte nuclei, protecting the skin from ultraviolet radiation.

Disorders

Disorders of melanocytes can lead to various skin conditions. These include vitiligo, where melanocytes are destroyed, leading to patches of skin without pigment, and melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer that originates in melanocytes.

See also

• Melanin
• Melanoma
• Vitiligo
• Melanogenesis
• Keratinocyte

Melanocytic Resources
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