MELANOGEN Meaning and
Definition
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Melanogen, noun:
Melanogen refers to a substance or agent that is responsible for the formation or production of melanin. Melanin is a pigment found in the skin, hair, and eyes of humans and animals that plays a vital role in determining their coloration. It is responsible for producing various shades of brown, black, and even red hues.
In biological terms, melanogen is an enzyme or protein molecule that triggers the biosynthesis or synthesis of melanin. It is typically found within specialized cells called melanocytes, which are primarily located in the basal layer of the epidermis. These cells are responsible for the production, storage, and transfer of melanin throughout the body.
Various factors can influence melanogen activity. Environmental aspects, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, can stimulate melanogen production, resulting in a darkening of the skin through the process of tanning. Conversely, certain genetic conditions or disorders may lead to reduced or excess melanogen activity, resulting in conditions such as albinism or hyperpigmentation, respectively.
Overall, melanogen plays a crucial role in determining the pigment of the skin, hair, and eyes in living organisms. By enabling the production of melanin, it contributes to variations in coloration and serves as a protective mechanism against harmful UV radiation.
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A chromogen in urine which is converted into melanin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MELANOGEN
- nelanogen
- kelanogen
- jelanogen
- mwlanogen
- mslanogen
- mdlanogen
- mrlanogen
- m4lanogen
- m3lanogen
- mekanogen
- mepanogen
- meoanogen
- melznogen
- melsnogen
- melwnogen
- melqnogen
- melabogen
- melamogen
- melajogen
- melahogen
Etymology of MELANOGEN
The word "melanogen" is derived from the Greek roots "melano-" meaning "black" or "dark" and "-gen" meaning "to produce" or "to generate". The word originates from the field of biology, where it refers to any substance or agent that stimulates or promotes the production of the pigment melanin. Melanin is responsible for determining the color of our hair, eyes, and skin.
