M8631

Melanin

Synthetic

• CAS Number: 8049-97-6
• EC Number: 232-473-6
• MDL number: MFCD00131581
• UNSPSC Code: 12352204
• NACRES: NA.83

Properties

• Quality Level: 100
• form: powder
• storage temp.: −20°C
• SMILES string: [nH]1c2c3c(c4c5c([nH]c4)c([c]([c](c5c3c1)=O)=O)C)[c]([c](c2C)=O)=O
• InChI: 1S/C18H10N2O4/c1-5-13-9-7(3-19-13)12-10-8(11(9)17(23)15(5)21)4-20-14(10)6(2)16(22)18(12)24/h3-4,19-20H,1-2H3
• InChI key: XUMBMVFBXHLACL-UHFFFAOYSA-N

Description

General description

Melanin is a vital pigment present on the surface structures of vertebrates,[1] which contribute to skin color.[2] It has three forms such as, eumelanin, pheomelanin and neuromelanin.[2] Melanin has cation chelating and redox properties. It is a potent absorbent of light. Melanin functions as a chemoprotective and photoprotective pigment. Mutations in this gene are associated with oculocutaneous albinism, vitiligo, piebaldism and Waardenburg syndrome.[1]

Application

Melanin has been used:

• in spectrophotometry[3]
• to study its effect on reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) inhibition and effect of BSA (bovine serum albumin) in overcoming the inhibition[4]
• as an absorber for skin layer in near-infrared tissue spectra[5]
• Raman spectroscopy[6]

Preparation Note

Prepared by oxidation of tyrosine with hydrogen peroxide.

Safety Information

• Storage Class Code: 11 - Combustible Solids
• WGK: WGK 1
• Flash Point(F): Not applicable
• Flash Point(C): Not applicable
• Personal Protective Equipment: dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves