Biology of melanocytes in mammals

Abstract

Melanocytes, which originate from the neuroectoderm, are specialized cells responsible for producing pigments and possessing a dendritic morphology. These cells migrate to the epidermis and follicles, contributing to skin and hair pigmentation during embryonic development. The remarkable self-renewal capacity of melanocytes enables them to effectively restore hair and skin pigmentation. The synthesis of melanin to safeguard the skin against damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, as well as the enigmatic immune function of melanocytes, demonstrate their indispensable contributions to maintaining cutaneous homeostasis. The regulation of cutaneous pigmentation involves an intricate network influenced by intrinsic cellular signals within melanocytes and extracellular cues. Therefore, this paper provides a comprehensive review of the role of melanocytes in skin biology. This in-depth analysis could open novel avenues for research aimed at the prevention and treatment of skin disorders.

Modified human skin cell isolation protocol and its influence on keratinocyte and melanocyte culture

“…Melanin, synthesized by melanocytes, protects skin from the UV light and determines skin, eye and hair color [ 18 ]. MITF is the major transcription factor involved in melanin synthesis and plays an important role in melanocyte survival, migration, proliferation and differentiation [ 19 ].…”

Melanin Biopolymers in Pharmacology and Medicine—Skin Pigmentation Disorders, Implications for Drug Action, Adverse Effects and Therapy

“…Melanocytes are of neuroectodermal origin and are derived from multipotent neural crest cells (NCCs) ( Figure 1 ) [ 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 ]. The early induction of NCC development primarily occurs under the influence of BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) group cytokines.…”