Which statement about melanin is accurate?
A) Melanin darkens in response to sun exposure to shade skin cells.
B) Melanocytes surround skin cells and increase in number as exposure to the sun increases.
C) Melanin replaces the cytoplasm as skin cells die.
D) Melanin forms a cap over the nucleus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Melanin forms a cap over the nucleus to protect it from UV radiation. This is important because UV radiation can cause DNA damage and mutations, which can lead to skin cancer. Melanin production is stimulated by sun exposure, but it doesn't actually shade skin cells or replace cytoplasm. Melanocytes also don't surround skin cells; they are located in the lower layers of the epidermis and produce melanin that is transferred to nearby skin cells.

Which Statement About Melanin Is Accurate