No, pigment itself is not a cell. A pigment is a coloring matter, a substance that gives color to animal or plant tissues. Pigment cells, however, are cells. These cells contain pigments and are responsible for the color of many organisms.
Types of Pigment Cells and Their Origins
Several types of pigment cells exist, arising from different embryonic origins:
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Melanocytes: These are the most well-known pigment cells, producing melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. They are derived from the neural crest, a group of migratory cells in the developing embryo. [The pigment cell is one of the most well characterized derivatives of neural crest].
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Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) cells: These cells are found in the eye and are crucial for vision. They are derived from the optic neuroepithelium. [Vertebrate retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells are derived from the multipotent optic neuroepithelium, develop in close proximity to the retina,] [Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is formed from a single layer of regular polygonal cells arranged at the outermost layer of the retina.]
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Other pigment cells: Pigment cells can also originate from the mesoderm, a germ layer in the developing embryo. [Pigment cells are mesodermal in origin and derived from the cells forming the dorsal part of the ring of blastomeres in direct contact with large micromeres.] The specific origins and types of pigment cells vary depending on the organism and tissue.
Pigment Cell Research
The study of pigment cells is vital in understanding various biological processes and diseases. Research areas include:
- Melanoma: A serious type of skin cancer originating from melanocytes. [Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research is a dermatology journal on the causes, progression and prevention of melanoma, covering cell & molecular biology, …]
- Vitiligo: A condition characterized by the loss of pigment cells, leading to depigmentation of the skin. [Pigment cell transplantation for treatment of vitiligo: a progress report]
- Hyperpigmentation: An increase in skin pigmentation, often due to excessive melanin production. [Chemical and instrumental approaches to treat hyperpigmentation]
The study of pigment cell development, function, and dysfunction provides valuable insights into various aspects of biology and medicine. [Thyroid hormone regulates distinct paths to maturation in pigment …] [The other pigment cell: specification and development of the …] [What is a vertebrate pigment cell?]
[Pigment Cell Biology]
