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Melanin

By Heather Brannon, MD, About.com

Created: October 23, 2004

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: A dark brown to black pigment found in the skin, hair, and parts of the eye. Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes and helps protect against the harmful effect of UV radiation.
Pronunciation: MEL-uh-nin - (noun)
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