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Melanocyte - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A melanocyte is a specialized skin cell that produces melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. It helps protect against UV radiation.

melanocyte

/ˈmɛlənoʊˌsaɪt/ /ˈmɛlənəʊˌsaɪt/

Definition:

A cell in the skin that produces melanin, responsible for pigmentation.

Synonyms:

pigment cell, melanin-producing cell, melanophore

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

keratinocyte, fibroblast

Common Collocations:

skin melanocytes, melanocyte activity, melanocyte-stimulating hormone

Derivatives:

melanocytic, melanocytoma

Usage Tips:

Use "melanocyte" when discussing skin biology or pigmentation disorders like melanoma.

Common Phrases:

"melanocyte-stimulating hormone, " "melanocyte transplantation, " "melanocyte proliferation"

Etymology:

From Greek "melas" (black) + "kytos" (cell), referring to pigment-producing cells.

Examples:

  • 1. The sun activates melanocytes to produce more melanin.
  • 2. Melanocytes determine skin color by distributing pigment.
  • 3. Albinism occurs when melanocytes fail to function properly.
  • 4. UV radiation can damage melanocytes and increase cancer risk.

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