Epigenetic regulation during melanocyte development and homeostasis

xlomafota13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Epigenetic regulation during melanocyte development and homeostasis Via Experimental Dermatology Abstract Melanocytes originate in the neural crest as precursor cells which then migrate and proliferate to reach their destination where they differentiate into pigment-producing cells. Melanocytes not only determine the color of hair, skin and eyes but also protect against the harmful effects of UV irradiation. The establishment of the melanocyte lineage is regulated by a defined set of transcription factors and signaling pathways that direct the specific gene expression programs underpinning melanoblast specification, survival, migration, proliferation and differentiation. In addition, epigenetic modifiers and replacement histones play key roles in regulating gene expression and its timing during the different steps of this process. Here we discuss the evidence for the role of epigenetic regulators in melanocyte development and function and how they interact with transcription factors and signaling pathways to establish and maintain this important cell lineage. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.