Articles tagged with Melanin
A new study reveals common properties of eumelanin and natural organic matter, two substances responsible for Earth's pigments. The research could lead to more efficient solar power cells, longer-lasting batteries, and electronics.
Researchers have identified the cells and connections underlying a fish's ability to dynamically change color to match its surroundings. The study found that specialized skin cells called melanophores control the color change, which helps the zebrafish evade predators by lightening its skin over tens of minutes.
A new study by the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Cohort suggests that higher vitamin D levels during pregnancy may be associated with better cognitive test scores in children. Children of Black mothers, in particular, showed strongest association between vitamin D and cognitive development.
A study published in Neurobiology of Disease found that melanin degradation is impaired in genetically engineered mice lacking the SLC26A4 gene, leading to chronic inflammation and macrophage activation. The researchers propose a novel pathological cascade where melanin accumulation exacerbates hearing loss in pigmented individuals.
A novel compound ML233 inhibits melanin production with no significant toxic side effects, offering a potential new strategy for treating pigment-related skin conditions. The study demonstrates promising results in reducing melanin synthesis and proliferation of melanoma cells.
Bumblebees closer to honeybee hives are more likely to attract voracious wax moths, resulting in lower reproductive output and weaker immune response. Conservationists and beekeepers should avoid placing apiaries in areas with high pollinator biodiversity or declining bumblebee populations.
Researchers propose utilizing human 3D skin models to assess drug binding properties across different skin types. Genetic variations among minority groups can lead to starkly different drug responses across races and ethnicities.
The study found that individuals with higher melanin levels experience decreased signal quality and lower oxygen saturation readings. To enhance reliability, researchers advocate for incorporating melanin level measurements and using specific wavelengths less absorbed by melanin.
Research reveals the importance of exfoliation and improving skin metabolism for effective skin whitening treatments. Slower keratin metabolism in body skin can lead to dullness and pigmentation, making sun protection crucial.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science discovered a natural tyrosinase inhibitor from Corynebacterium tuberculostearicum that inhibits melanin synthesis and provides an alternative to toxic hydroquinone-based products. The compound, cyclo(L-Pro-L-Tyr), exhibits low toxicity and potential benefits for hyperpigmentation treatment.
Researchers have discovered that melanins play a crucial role in protecting lichens from harmful UV radiation and herbivores. In the lichen species Toniniopsis dissimilis, two-thirds of polyketide synthases are involved in melanin production, suggesting their importance for this species' survival.
Researchers from Chiba University develop sustainable method for producing biodegradable polymers using cuttlefish ink melanin. Decomposition products are converted into polymeric materials with potential applications in circular economies.
Researchers discovered a new way to effectively treat melanoma using nutrients to reactivate suppressed metabolic pathways in cancer cells. The innovative treatment, involving tyrosine nanomicelles, showed promising results in mice and lab-derived human cells, inhibiting tumour growth and reducing glycolysis.
A study from the University of Gothenburg found that patient images are severely lacking in scientific articles on atopic dermatitis. This lack of visual aids hinders patients' ability to make informed decisions about their care, as they struggle to understand complex medical terminology and figures. The absence of images also affects ...
Researchers developed an index to optimize picosecond laser treatment for skin blemishes, showing low complication rates and high efficacy. The wavelength-dependent indicators are expected to improve the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
The study found that black spots in salmon fillets contain eumelanin, a type of melanin present in human hair and skin, while red spots do not detectably contain melanin. The discovery provides an important step towards understanding the cause of these unsightly spots.
Scientists developed a synthetic melanin that accelerates wound healing and protects against sun damage. The cream also quiets the immune system, allowing for continuous repair and reducing inflammation.
A study published in Science has identified 135 previously unknown genes associated with pigmentation, shedding light on the regulation of melanin production in humans. The research could help protect lighter-skinned individuals from skin cancer and develop new treatments for vitiligo and other pigmentation diseases.
Dr. McKay will investigate the chemical composition of chromophores in DOM using advanced analytical tools and conduct measurements at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. His research aims to enhance predictions regarding DOM behavior and reactivity in the environment.
Researchers at McGill University have made a major breakthrough in understanding the fundamental structure of melanin, a pigment that gives humans their skin, eye, and hair color. The study revealed that a specific component of melanin can convert light into heat across all wavelengths, providing broad-spectrum protection.
Researchers have developed a simple green process to extract both keratin and melanin from human hair without harsh chemicals or excessive waste. The extracted compounds have antioxidative properties and can help shield against ultraviolet light, making them suitable for biomedical applications.
Researchers found that increasing melanin levels in human skin reduces Cherenkov emission intensity, while blood concentration affects different color channels. The study suggests using multispectral signatures to correct attenuated signals based on patient's blood volume or skin color.
A genetically engineered bacterium has enabled the biosynthesis of melanin nanoparticles with excellent biocompatibility, stability, and photothermal conversion efficiency. The resulting nanoparticles showed strong absorption in the near-infrared region and high antitumor efficacy for photoacoustic imaging-guided photothermal therapy.
Nrf3 coordinates melanin production by regulating macropinocytosis and autophagy, upregulating core melanogenic factors and inducing melanosomes. The study also identifies Nrf3's role in skin cancer and hyperpigmentation conditions.
A KAIST research team has developed a surface-lighting microLED patch for UV-induced melanogenesis inhibition. The patch demonstrated significant suppression of melanin synthesis and minimized epidermal photo-toxicity, making it a promising treatment option for skin diseases such as spots and freckles.
Sensory neurons in human skin have been found to regulate melanocytes, influencing pigmentation and cell survival. The study identified a protein called RGMB as a key factor promoting melanocyte survival and darkness.
Bloodworms use copper harvested from sediments to form their jaws, which are strong enough to last five years. The worm synthesizes a material with mechanical properties similar to manufactured metals through a complex process involving protein and melanin.
A study suggests that smartwatch heart rate measurement algorithms are less effective in people with darker skin tones due to increased melanin absorption. Researchers emphasize the need for diverse population inclusion and explore alternative light wavelengths for more accurate readings.
Researchers at Kyoto University have identified a genetic mutation causing albinism in wallabies, tracing it to an inserted retrovirus gene. The study found that the mutation was caused by a copy of the HIV-like virus inserted into the host's genome.
Researchers have created a new approach to edit genes within specific bacteria in a community using CRISPR-Cas9, enabling targeted genetic modifications. This technology could be used to track edited microbes and potentially treat diseases like digestive issues or create more resilient crops.
Male dragonflies have evolved larger melanin wing patches in cooler climates to cope with warmer temperatures. Climate change may lead to even smaller patches in the future, according to research published in PNAS.
A study suggests that glyphosate, the world's most widely used herbicide, weakens the immune systems of insects by inhibiting melanin production. This reduction in resistance to infection may have significant impacts on ecosystems and human health.
Researchers at Northwestern University created a new form of synthetic melanin that mimics the properties of fungal melanin, which can protect against environmental stressors. The material, called 'fungal ghosts,' is selectively porous, allowing it to store and capture molecules while letting good stuff through.
Northwestern University researchers create a spectrum of natural-looking hair colors by catalyzing synthetic melanin with enzymes. The new process avoids toxins and allergens found in traditional dyes, providing a sustainable alternative for hairstylists and consumers alike.
Researchers at Northwestern University have synthesized a new form of melanin enriched with selenium, called selenomelanin, which shows promise as a shield for human tissue against harmful radiation. The new biomaterial offers better protection than traditional forms of melanin and has potential applications in space travel
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new hair dye process using synthetic melanin that mimics natural human hair pigmentation. The dye, tested under mild conditions, produces natural-looking colors that persist for at least 18 washes, avoiding toxicity and allergies associated with traditional hair dyes.
Researchers at Northwestern University created a gentler hair dye process using synthetic melanin, with conditions similar to or milder than those used for commercially available dyes. The natural-looking colors persisted for at least 18 washes, posing less damage and health risks compared to traditional methods.
Recent research found that melanin-producing Streptomyces are better at colonizing plants, offering protection against harmful chemicals and pests. The ability to produce melanin helps microbes survive inside plants.
The study found that melanosome size and geometry vary between species and organs within a species. Melanosomes from fossils differ significantly in size, geometry, and chemistry depending on body region, suggesting a role for melanosomes in metal metabolism and providing new insights into extinct vertebrate anatomy.
A team of scientists found that opsin 3, a protein related to rhodopsin, regulates melanin production in human skin cells. Without opsin 3, the skin produces more pigment, resulting in darker skin color. The study reveals a new paradigm for opsins and may lead to treatments for pigmentation disorders.
Researchers developed melanin-loaded cell membrane derived nanoparticles that improved tumor imaging and slowed tumor growth in an animal model. The nanoparticles also triggered an immune response against the tumor, making them a potential option for theranostics.
Scientists have achieved a billion-fold increase in the electrical conductivity of melanin, enabling its potential in safe and sustainable bioelectronics. The breakthrough involves heating synthetic eumelanin to produce High Vacuum Annealed Eumelanin, which shows tunable conductivity and biocompatibility.
A small pilot clinical study suggests that nitisinone increases melanin production in some people with oculocutaneous albinism type 1B, a rare genetic disease. The drug may help protect against the sun's UV rays and promote normal vision development.
Clara Santato received the 2018 MRS Communications Lecture award for her work on melanin research, which has led to advancements in energy storage/conversion, ion separation/water treatment, and bioelectronics. Her research aims to develop sustainable technologies using natural materials.
A team of scientists has developed a new method for producing non-iridescent, bright structural colors inspired by the iridescence of bird feathers. The process uses a simple one-pot reverse emulsion technique to create supraballs with high color saturation and brightness.
Researchers at CUNY's ASRC developed a new approach to produce materials that mimic melanin's properties, providing unprecedented control over expressing specific properties of the biopolymer. This discovery could enable the development of innovative cosmetic and biomedical products.
Scientists have developed a method to tune the optical and electrical properties of synthetic polymer analogs similar to melanin, a natural pigment affecting skin color. The study reveals that adjusting peptide sequences can produce noticeably different colors, ranging from beige to brown-black.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed nanoparticles that mimic the behavior of natural melanosomes, protecting skin cells from UV radiation. These synthetic melanin-like nanoparticles show promise as artificial melanosomes for novel therapy development.
Researchers have successfully imaged the two dominant melanin molecules using a refined Raman-based technique, CARS microscopy. This breakthrough could lead to new understandings and early detection of melanoma, particularly in cases where pheomelanin is present.
Researchers created a potentially safer alternative to common hair dye ingredient PPD by mimicking melanin using polydopamine. The new dye lasts through multiple wash cycles without causing noticeable side effects.
Melanin, a natural compound found in mammals, has been successfully synthesized using a novel route that enables its use in sensors and other applications. This breakthrough material is promising for developing miniaturized implantable devices capable of altering and controlling electrical signals in the human body.
A Kyoto University team has demystified the process of melanin transport to epidermis using video cameras and chicken tissue. Melanin pigments protect skin from DNA damage by surrounding keratinocyte nuclei, a discovery that could lead to effective dermatological treatments.
Researchers have discovered that adding melanin to polyurethane increases its tensile strength and toughness by up to 10 times. The enhanced material can stretch farther before breaking, making it a promising alternative for various applications.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed non-toxic, edible batteries using melanin pigments that can power low-power, repeat applications like drug-delivery devices. The batteries can be used to diagnose and treat diseases with minimal toxicity.
Scientists at Brown University have discovered a molecular 'brake' that regulates melanin production in the eyes, skin, and hair. The study found that TPC2, a protein channel, reduces melanin production by increasing acidity in melanosomes.
Researchers discovered that fungal spores can infect human immune cells, allowing them to transport themselves and cause systemic infections. The discovery sheds light on the ecological adaptation of Aspergillus terreus and its potential for detrimental effects in human infections.
Researchers at the University of Leicester identified the ancient 'Tully Monster' as a vertebrate, solving a 300 million-year-old mystery. The discovery was made possible by analyzing the fossil's melanosomes, which contain melanin, and revealed two distinct shapes, indicating that the creature had good vision.
Researchers developed a novel feature space to characterize human skin using spectral absorption characteristics of melanin, hemoglobin, and water. This approach reduces the cost of hyperspectral-based search and rescue systems by a factor of seven.
Scientists utilize advanced molecular techniques to clarify dinosaur color, distinguishing melanosomes from microbial coats. By analyzing keratin and ToF-SIMS results, researchers confirm the presence of melanin in fossilized feathers, shedding light on ancient color patterns.
Researchers use combined techniques to determine color of ancient bat species, finding they were both reddish-brown. The study uses fossilized melanin to infer color, showing a correlation between melanin shape and color.