Phenomena and Processes

Melanogenesis

The biosynthesis of MELANINS in insects and higher animals. The key chemical step of melanogenesis is the initial conversion of TYROSINE to DOPAQUINONE by TYROSINASE, distinguishing melanogenesis from pathways for melanin synthesis in plants. Melanogenesis is complex process involving several stages from the formation of MELANOCYTES during EMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT to the synthesis of MELANINS in the MELANOSOMES and their distribution via transport of the melanosomes to surrounding KERATINOCYTES.

National Library of MedicineMedical Subject Headings2026

Structured Summary

Abstract

The biosynthesis of MELANINS in insects and higher animals. The key chemical step of melanogenesis is the initial conversion of TYROSINE to DOPAQUINONE by TYROSINASE, distinguishing melanogenesis from pathways for melanin synthesis in plants. Melanogenesis is complex process involving several stages from the formation of MELANOCYTES during EMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT to the synthesis of MELANINS in the MELANOSOMES and their distribution via transport of the melanosomes to surrounding KERATINOCYTES.

MeSH Record

Classification

Broader headings

Related Concepts

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MeSH Record

Synonyms

2 entry terms
  • Eumelanogenesis
  • Phaeomelanogenesis

MeSH Record

Aspects Covered

5 allowable subheadings

Indexed with the subheadings drug effects, genetics, immunology, physiology, radiation effects.

MeSH Record

Indexing Annotation

animal only: for human, use MELANIN/ biosyn

MeSH Record

History Note

2024

MeSH Record

Previous Indexing

  • Melanins/metabolism (1963-2023)

MeSH Hierarchy

Tree Numbers

  1. G02.111.545
  2. G03w.474
  3. G04.536

AMA Style

References

  1. National Library of Medicine. Melanogenesis. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). 2026. Unique ID D000095868. http://id.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/2026/D000095868
  2. Melanogenesis. In: Wikidata. https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11777031