The Potential Impact of Melanosomal pH and Metabolism on Melanoma

Melanin synthesis in melanoma cells, despite their lack of involvement in sun tanning, may provide metabolic benefits beyond UV protection. The regulation of melanin synthesis by melanosomal pH in melanocytes and its potential advantages for melanoma cellular metabolism are discussed, suggesting that melanin synthesis could offer a selective advantage for melanoma cells. This synthesis is not limited to benign melanocytes, indicating a broader role for melanin in melanoma beyond its traditional functions.