melanocyte
A melanin-producing neural-crest derived cell.
(Locations)
• stratum basale (the deepest layer of the epidermis)
• uvea (the middle layer of the eye)
• inner ear
• vaginal epithelium
• meninges
• bones
• heart
Melanin is a dark pigment primarily responsible for skin color. It is contained in melanosomes (special organelles) which can be transported to nearby keratinocytes to induce pigmentation. It serves as protection against UV radiation.
Melanin is also responsible for the immune system to infections. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunoregulatory functions in innate immune responses, with melanocytes participating in phagocytosis and inflammation.
alpha-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is produced by cells in the pars intermedia of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland.
Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is a hypothalamic neuropeptide, that regulates feeding and energy homeostasis.
Cf. tyrosinase, arcuate nucleus