The hormone involved in melanin production is called melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH).
MSH is not a single hormone, but rather a group of peptide hormones, primarily α-MSH, β-MSH, and γ-MSH. In vertebrates, these hormones are secreted by the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland. While MSH plays a crucial role in skin darkening (melanin production), it also has other minor functions within the body. The primary action of MSH is to increase the production of melanin in melanocytes.
Here's a breakdown:
- Melanin: This is the pigment responsible for the color of skin, hair, and eyes.
- Melanocytes: These are specialized cells that produce melanin.
- Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (MSH): This hormone stimulates melanocytes to produce more melanin.
Therefore, while melanin is the pigment, melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) is the hormone that directly influences its production.
