Lowmelanin
Lowmelanin refers to reduced production or presence of melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes. Melanin determines color and helps protect skin from ultraviolet radiation by absorbing and dissipating ultraviolet light. Levels of melanin vary widely among individuals and populations.
Melanin is produced by specialized cells called melanocytes, located in the epidermis. The production pathway requires
Low melanin is associated with several conditions. Albinism, especially oculocutaneous albinism, involves defects in melanin production
Health and social implications include increased sensitivity to ultraviolet light, higher risk of sunburn and skin
Research on low melanin spans genetics, dermatology, and ophthalmology, aiming to understand pigment production, immune mechanisms