The amino acid involved in albinism is tyrosine. Albinism is a genetic condition that results in a deficiency or absence of melanin, the pigment that gives color to skin, hair, and eyes. The deficiency is caused by mutations in genes involved in melanin production. Most commonly, these mutations affect an enzyme called tyrosinase, which breaks down tyrosine and creates melanin.
- Tyrosine is an amino acid that serves as the starting material for melanin production.
- Tyrosinase is the enzyme that converts tyrosine into melanin.
- Mutations in the gene encoding tyrosinase can lead to a reduction or complete absence of tyrosinase activity, causing melanin production to slow down or stop entirely.
Depending on the specific mutation, albinism can manifest in various ways, ranging from mild to severe.
