Melanin: Nature's Multifunctional Protector

Different species exhibit various adaptations driven by their lifestyles, revealing the multifaceted role of melanin. Beyond its ability to absorb all aspects of the electromagnetic spectrum, melanin also absorbs magnetochemical inputs and mitigates reactive oxygen species (ROS). This positions endogenous melanin as a vital buffer and capacitor, enabling the body to generate internal light in previously unrecognized ways. Research suggests that proteins associated with mitochondrial metabolism, like melanogenin, contribute to internal tanning, a protective mechanism. The loss of this protective 'tan' may be linked to common diseases, particularly Parkinson's, underscoring the importance of melanin in health and disease prevention.