MELANOBLAST Meaning and
Definition
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A melanoblast is a specialized type of embryonic cell that gives rise to melanocytes – the cells responsible for producing and distributing the pigment melanin in the body. Melanoblasts are derived from the neural crest during development. They possess the potential to differentiate and develop into melanocytes, which exist predominantly in the skin, hair, and eyes. The term "melanoblast" is derived from the combination of "melan-" referring to melanin, and "-blast" denoting an immature cellular stage.
Initially, melanoblasts are undifferentiated and possess a high mitotic activity. During maturation, they undergo a series of complex molecular and cellular changes, facilitated by various regulators and signaling pathways. These changes include the production of tyrosinase, which is crucial for melanin synthesis. As melanoblasts differentiate into melanocytes, they migrate from the neural crest to their designated sites in the body, guided by chemotactic signals.
The functionality of melanocytes is primarily related to the production and distribution of melanin, which determines the color of skin, hair, and eyes. The process of melanogenesis involves the synthesis, packaging, and transportation of melanin to neighboring keratinocytes, where it provides protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Melanoblasts and their differentiated progeny play a fundamental role in determining various pigmentation-related traits, including skin tone, hair color, and eye color in humans and other animals.
Common Misspellings for MELANOBLAST
- nelanoblast
- kelanoblast
- jelanoblast
- mwlanoblast
- mslanoblast
- mdlanoblast
- mrlanoblast
- m4lanoblast
- m3lanoblast
- mekanoblast
- mepanoblast
- meoanoblast
- melznoblast
- melsnoblast
- melwnoblast
- melqnoblast
- melaboblast
- melamoblast
- melajoblast
Etymology of MELANOBLAST
The word "melanoblast" consists of two morphemes: "melano-" and "blast".
The first morpheme, "melano-", is derived from the Greek word "melas", meaning "black" or "dark". It is commonly used to refer to melanin, the black pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color.
The second morpheme, "blast", comes from the Greek word "blastos", which means "germ" or "bud". In scientific terminology, "blast" is often used to denote an immature or undifferentiated cell.
Therefore, the term "melanoblast" refers to an immature or undifferentiated cell that has the potential to produce melanin.
Similar spelling word for MELANOBLAST
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