Melanogenesis

**Definition:** The biosynthesis of MELANINS in insects and higher animals. The key chemical step of melanogenesis is the initial conversion of TYROSINE to DOPAQUINONE by TYROSINASE, distinguishing melanogenesis from pathways for melanin synthesis in plants. Melanogenesis is complex process involving several stages from the formation of MELANOCYTES during EMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT to the synthesis of MELANINS in the MELANOSOMES and their distribution via transport of the melanosomes to surrounding KERATINOCYTES.

**Tree numbers:** - G02.111.545 - G03.474 - G04.536