Oregon Esthetician State Board

What enzyme is responsible for converting tyrosine into melanin?

1. Catalase

2. Oxidase

3. Tyrosinase

4. Superoxide dismutase

The correct answer is: Tyrosinase

The enzyme that is responsible for converting tyrosine into melanin is tyrosinase. This is a crucial enzymatic step in the process of melanogenesis, which is the biological pathway that produces melanin, the pigment that gives color to skin, hair, and eyes. Tyrosinase catalyzes the hydroxylation of phenylalanine to tyrosine, and subsequently converts tyrosine to dopa and dopaquinone, ultimately leading to the production of melanin. Understanding the role of tyrosinase is essential in esthetics, particularly when dealing with skin pigmentation issues such as hyperpigmentation or melasma. The regulation of this enzyme can influence the complexion and is a key factor in the development of various skin treatments aimed at lightening or evening skin tone. The other enzymes listed have different functions. Catalase is primarily involved in breaking down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Oxidase participates in oxidation-reduction reactions, and superoxide dismutase helps to mitigate oxidative stress by converting superoxide radicals into less harmful molecules. None of these are involved in the specific conversion of tyrosine into melanin.