UROMELANIN Meaning and
Definition
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Uromelanin is a type of melanin pigment found specifically in the urine of mammals and birds. It is primarily known for its dark brown to black coloration, which contributes to the color of the urine. Uromelanin is derived from the breakdown of the amino acid tyrosine, which is converted into a chemical called dopaquinone. Subsequent chemical reactions involving dopaquinone lead to the formation of uromelanin.
Uromelanin plays a crucial role in the pigmentation of certain tissues and organs. For example, it is responsible for the dark coloration of the skin, hair, and eyes, providing protection against potentially harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. In the urinary system, uromelanin imparts a distinct color to the urine, ranging from yellowish-brown to dark brown.
Besides its role in pigmentation, uromelanin also possesses other properties. It has been found to exhibit antioxidative activity, helping to scavenge harmful free radicals and protect cells against oxidative stress. Additionally, uromelanin can bind to and chelate certain metals, such as iron, copper, and mercury, potentially contributing to their detoxification and elimination from the body.
The study of uromelanin and its properties is important in various fields, including medicine, biology, and environmental science, as it provides insights into the physiological and chemical processes related to pigmentation, antioxidant defense, and metal detoxification.
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A black pigment occasionally found in the urine, C18H43N7O10, probably a decomposition product of urochrome.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for UROMELANIN
- yromelanin
- hromelanin
- jromelanin
- iromelanin
- 8romelanin
- 7romelanin
- ueomelanin
- udomelanin
- ufomelanin
- utomelanin
- u5omelanin
- u4omelanin
- urimelanin
- urkmelanin
- urlmelanin
- urpmelanin
- ur0melanin
- ur9melanin
- uronelanin
- urokelanin
Etymology of UROMELANIN
The word "uromelanin" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "oura" meaning "tail" and "melas" meaning "black" or "dark". The prefix "uro-" refers to the tail region. Therefore, "uromelanin" can be understood as the melanin pigment found specifically in the tail region of certain animals.
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