Question

Which of the following statements is true about melanin?

a) Its primary function is to increase the penetration of ultraviolet radiation through the skin.
b) Skin may vary seasonally in the amount it contains.
c) People with high concentrations of it in their skin are at a greater risk for skin cancer.

Answer 1

Melanin is a pigment that protects the skin from UV ray damage and folic acid breakdown. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale skin. However, excessive melanin can interfere with vitamin D production.

Step-by-step explanation:

Melanin is a pigment that occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin, which exists as black and brown, and pheomelanin, which provides a red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale skin. When exposed to UV rays, melanin is manufactured and built up in keratinocytes, resulting in a tan. Melanin accumulation in keratinocytes protects the DNA of epidermal cells from UV ray damage and the breakdown of folic acid. However, too much melanin can interfere with the production of vitamin D. The amount of melanin in our skin depends on a balance between available sunlight and protection from UV radiation and vitamin D production.