Melanin biosynthesis pathway

The **melanin biosynthesis pathway** (melanogenesis) is a multi-step biological process responsible for the production of melanin pigments, primarily in melanocytes of mammals and in fungi and other organisms. In humans, this pathway begins with the oxidation of L-tyrosine to DOPAquinone, followed by a series of reactions involving key enzymes such as tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TRP-1), and tyrosinase-related protein-2 (TRP-2), ultimately converting precursors into different types of melanin (eumelanin, pheomelanin)[6]. Regulation of the pathway involves multiple signaling cascades, including the α-MSH/MC1R/cAMP/PKA, Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/Akt, and MAPK pathways, with microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) as the master transcriptional regulator[2][5]. Inhibition of this pathway has therapeutic application in hyperpigmentation disorders and cosmetic skin lightening, while increased or aberrant activation is associated with melanoma and pigmentation abnormalities. In fungi, melanin biosynthesis is a target for antifungal therapy and contributes to virulence and drug resistance[3]. Drugs may also bind melanin, causing tissue accumulation or altering efficacy and side-effect profiles[6].

Other names

Melanogenesis pathwayMelanin synthesis pathwayMelanogenic pathway

Inhibition of tyrosinase or downstream melanogenic enzymes[8]; Modulation of signaling pathways such as cAMP/PKA, MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and Wnt[2][5]; Blockade of melanin polymerization (in fungi)