Application

Melanin has been used:in spectrophotometryto study its effect on reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) inhibition and effect of BSA (bovine serum albumin) in overcoming the inhibitionas an absorber for skin layer in near-infrared tissue spectraRaman spectroscopy

General description

Melanin is a vital pigment present on the surface structures of vertebrates, which contribute to skin color. It has three forms such as, eumelanin, pheomelanin and neuromelanin. Melanin has cation chelating and redox properties. It is a potent absorbent of light. Melanin functions as a chemoprotective and photoprotective pigment. Mutations in this gene are associated with oculocutaneous albinism, vitiligo, piebaldism and Waardenburg syndrome.

Preparation Note

Prepared by oxidation of tyrosine with hydrogen peroxide.