| Melanin is a protein produced by melanocytes in the epidermal stratum basale of the skin, as well as in pili (hairs) and your nails. The melanocytes produce pigment that diffuses to the keratinocytes nearby (these cells migrate outwards and then shrivel up and die, producing the dead flaking stratum corneum that is on the surface of adult skin). If melanocytes are clustered, they form freckles or age spots. If they divide without control, they can enter the bloodstream (metastasis of a melanoma). This is not the answer that I was looking for, however! Lets return to the original question. |