Melanin is synthesized from :: (A) Tyrosine, (B) Tryptophan, (C) Phenyl alanine, (D) Threonine
Answer is A. Synthesis of Melanin Pigment Melanin is synthesized from tyrosine by following pathway. It occurs in melanosomes present in melanocytes of skin and hair Option 2-Tryptophan forms niacin (Vit B3), serotonin and melatonin. Extra Information: Uses of tyrosine: Albinism - Absence of pigment from skin, hair and eyes. Defect is in enzyme Tyrosinase. Patients also have vision defects and photophobia. This is also called oculo-cutaneous albinism. Vitiligo: Lack of melanoblast in some regional areas, but enzyme Tyrosinase is normal.