Question

Which of the following statement is true about melanocytes, the melanin- producing organs, in the skin.

(a) It is contained in the outermost layer of epidermis.
(b) It is opaque to ultraviolet light.
(c) It helps in resisting mechanical damage to skin and bacterial invasion.

Answer 1

Melanocytes produce melanin in the stratum basale of the epidermis. Melanin absorbs UV light, protecting the skin from damage and aiding in the prevention of bacterial invasion, while also contributing to vitamin D synthesis regulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Melanocytes are specialized cells located in the stratum basale of the epidermis which produce the pigment melanin. Melanin has a crucial role in the skin as it absorbs ultraviolet (UV) light, protecting underlying tissues from UV damage. Although melanin itself is opaque to UV light, it is not merely contained in the outermost layer of the epidermis but rather synthesized in the melanocytes of the basal layer and then transferred to the keratinocytes. Furthermore, through its role in UV absorption, melanin helps to prevent both mechanical damage to skin cells and bacterial invasion by lessening UV-induced harm. However, the production of melanin is a balance between providing protection from UV radiation and allowing for sufficient vitamin D synthesis, as too much melanin can lead to vitamin D deficiency in individuals with darker skin.