which of the following claims best explains why keratinocytes do not produce melanin?
Which of the following claims best explains why keratinocytes do not produce melanin?
Claim: Keratinocytes do not express the MITF gene.
Explanation: Keratinocytes are the predominant cells in the outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. While melanin is responsible for the color of the skin, hair, and eyes, it is actually produced by specialized skin cells called melanocytes, not keratinocytes.
The production of melanin is regulated by a transcription factor called MITF (Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor). MITF plays a crucial role in the differentiation and function of melanocytes. It controls the expression of genes involved in melanin synthesis.
However, keratinocytes do not express the MITF gene, which is why they do not produce melanin. Instead, keratinocytes serve various functions in the epidermis, including forming a protective barrier and producing keratin, a key structural protein.
In summary, the claim stating that keratinocytes do not express the MITF gene best explains why these cells do not produce melanin. Melanocytes, not keratinocytes, are responsible for the production of melanin in the skin.