The objectives of this study are to: 1) develop analytical techniques to characterize and quantify melanin polymers, 2) develop standard protocols for a) isolation of natural melanins and b) in vitro preparation of melanin chromophores. 3) compare and contrast, the melanin polymers prepared in vitro from tyrosinases isolated from various sources. 4) utilize biosynthetic methodology to examine the structures of mammalian melanins, and 5) elucidate the biosynthetic pathway between dopa and the polymeric melanin chromophores During the course of these studies carbon-13 and nitrogen-15 labeled melanins will be produced and characterized by NMR, ESR, FTIR and ESCA analyses.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
7R01AR039420-02
Application #
3159473
Study Section
Bio-Organic and Natural Products Chemistry Study Section (BNP)
Project Start
1988-05-16
Project End
1993-01-31
Budget Start
1988-05-16
Budget End
1989-01-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
1988
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Advanced Polymer Systems
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Redwood City
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
94063
Zeise, L; Murr, B L; Chedekel, M R (1992) Melanin standard method: particle description. Pigment Cell Res 5:132-42
Chedekel, M R; Murr, B L; Zeise, L (1992) Melanin standard method: empirical formula. Pigment Cell Res 5:143-7
Chedekel, M R; Ahene, A B; Zeise, L (1992) Melanin standard method: empirical formula 2. Pigment Cell Res 5:240-6
Zeise, L; Chedekel, M R (1992) Melanin standard method: titrimetric analysis. Pigment Cell Res 5:230-9