Table 2.
Locations and Functions of Extracutaneous Melanocytes.
| Location | Function | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Heart | Support the stiffness and mechanical properties of the cardiac valves | [172,173,174,175,176] |
| Reduce ROS | ||
| Regulate electrical and structural remodel | ||
| Maintain the endolymphatic potential | ||
| Regulate cochlear development | ||
| Stabilize the intrastriatal fluid–blood barrier | ||
| Protect from noise and ototoxic | ||
| Inner ear | Reduce ROS | [180,181,182,190,191,193] |
| Eye | Eye pigmentation and protection against UV | [189,194,198,199] |
| Support the normal vasculature of the choroid | ||
| Induce chemokine secretion and monocyte Migration | ||
| Sebaceous glands | May be a source of melanocyte stem cells | [200] |
| Brain | Neuroendocrine and detoxification | [195] |
| Adipose | Abate oxidative stress and inflammation | [196,197] |