Journal of Dermatitis

The Biological Process that Determines Melanoma Pigment Promotes Malignancy in the Skin

Sheila Hone^* Department of Dermatology, University of Virginia, Virginia, United States of America
^*Correspondence: Sheila Hone, Department of Dermatology, University of Virginia, Virginia, United States of America, Email:

Received: 29-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. JOD-23-21112; Editor assigned: 31-Mar-2023, Pre QC No. JOD-23-21112 (PQ); Reviewed: 21-Apr-2023, QC No. JOD-23-21112; Revised: 28-Apr-2023, Manuscript No. JOD-23-21112 (R); Published: 05-May-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2684-1436.23.8.197

Description

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates in the pigmentproducing cells of the skin, known as melanocytes. Melanoma occurs when these cells begin to grow uncontrollably and form a malignant tumor. Melanoma is known for its ability to spread rapidly to other parts of the body, making early detection and treatment critical. In this article, we will explore the mechanism by which melanoma pigment affects the skin.

Skin's pigment, melanin, which determines its colour, is created by melanocytes. Melanin is produced in specialized organelles within melanocytes called melanosomes. These organelles are then transferred to surrounding skin cells, where they provide protection against the damaging effects of Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Melanoma occurs when melanocytes begin to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. As the tumor grows, it can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis. Melanoma is particularly dangerous because it can spread quickly and can be difficult to treat once it has metastasized.

One of the key factors that contribute to the development of melanoma is exposure to UV radiation from the sun. UV radiation damages Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) within skin cells, which can lead to mutations that cause the cells to grow uncontrollably. Melanocytes are particularly vulnerable to UV radiation, as they are responsible for producing melanin, which absorbs UV radiation. When melanocytes are exposed to UV radiation, they respond by producing more melanin, which results in the darkening of the skin, commonly known as a suntan. While a suntan may provide some protection against further UV damage, it is not a foolproof defense against skin cancer.

In fact, repeated exposure to UV radiation can actually increase the risk of developing melanoma. This is because the increased production of melanin can lead to the formation of moles or freckles, which can then develop into melanoma. These moles and freckles are often irregular in shape and color, and may bleed or become painful over time. The mechanism by which melanoma pigment affects the skin involves the production of a protein called melanin. Melanin is produced by melanocytes within specialized organelles called melanosomes. Melanosomes contain enzymes that convert the amino acid tyrosine into melanin.

The type of melanin produced by melanocytes varies depending on the individual's genetic makeup. Eumelanin and pheomelanin are the two predominant kinds of melanin. Eumelanin is responsible for producing brown and black pigments, while pheomelanin produces reddish-yellow pigments. In individuals with fair skin, melanocytes produce less melanin than those with darker skin. This is why fair-skinned individuals are more susceptible to sunburn and skin damage from UV radiation. However, even individuals with darker skin can develop melanoma if they are exposed to excessive amounts of UV radiation.

The mechanism by which melanoma pigment affects the skin involves the ability of melanoma cells to produce and secrete large amounts of melanin. This melanin production is regulated by a protein called Microphthalmia Associated Transcription Factor (MITF). MITF is a transcription factor that controls the expression of genes involved in melanin production, including the enzymes responsible for converting tyrosine into melanin. In melanoma cells, MITF is often overexpressed, leading to increased production of melanin. The production of excess melanin by melanoma cells has several effects on the skin. One of the most noticeable effects is the darkening of the skin surrounding the tumor. This darkening is caused by the accumulation of melanin within skin cells, which is produced by the melanoma cells.