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Melanin is a pigment produced by specialized cells called melanocytes in the skin. It serves as a natural sunscreen by absorbing and scattering harmful UV radiation from the sun, protecting the skin from damage. The amount and type of melanin in the skin determine its coloration, with higher levels resulting in darker skin tones. This pigment also helps to regulate skin temperature and prevent DNA damage caused by UV exposure.

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Where else is melanin found in nature?

Melanin is found in various organisms beyond humans, including animals, plants, and fungi. In animals, it is responsible for pigmentation in skin, fur, feathers, and eyes, contributing to coloration and protection against UV radiation. In plants, melanin-like compounds can be found in some species, playing a role in stress responses and UV protection. Additionally, certain fungi produce melanin, which helps them survive in harsh environmental conditions and contributes to their coloration.


What pigments contribute to skin color?

melanin and carotene Carotene Melanin The chemical is called melanin.


What pigment is for sun protection?

Melanin


Do down feather's. give birds their colors?

No, down feathers do not give birds their colors. The colors of birds primarily come from pigments in their feathers, such as melanin and carotenoids, or from structural coloration, which is the result of the microscopic structure of the feathers. Down feathers, which are soft and fluffy, are primarily used for insulation and do not typically contribute to the bird's coloration.


Why do shar-peis have blue tongues?

It's a genetic thing that causes extra deposits of melanin (coloration) on their tongues.


Why is a dog's butthole black?

A dog's butthole is black due to the presence of melanin, a pigment that gives color to skin and hair. Melanin is responsible for the dark coloration of the skin around the anus in dogs.


What two pigments contribute to skin color?

Melanin and carotene


The pigments melanin and what contribute to skin color?

The pigments melanin and carotene contribute to skin color. Carotene is found in foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes, apricots, spinach and broccoli.


Does melanin make the skin tougher?

Yes, melanin does make the skin tougher. One of the function of the melanin is to give the skin color. The levels of melanin depends with the amount of the sunlight exposure.


Does melanin function as a kind of sweat gland?

Melanin is not a sweat gland. Is is the chemical that provides skin color.


How does pigment contribute to skin color?

Melanin, Haemoglobin, and Carotene are the three pigments that contribute to skin color.


What are melanin and keratin?

Melanin and carotene are skin pigments that help block damaging rays from the sun. The more of these pigments in the skin the greater the protection.