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Trichochromes in red human hair
Acta Dermato-Venereologica
|January 1, 1978
Summary
Red human hair contains trichochromes B and C, confirmed through advanced analytical methods. A key precursor found in guinea-pig hair was notably absent in humans.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Dermatology
- Human Pigmentation
Background:
- Trichochromes are pigments found in hair, with specific types identified in various mammals.
- Previous research indicated the presence of a trichochrome precursor, 5-S-cysteinyldopa, in red guinea-pig hair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm the presence of trichochromes B and C in red human hair using a validated analytical technique.
- To investigate the presence of the trichochrome precursor 5-S-cysteinyldopa in red human hair.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a precise analytical procedure to detect and confirm trichochromes B and C.
- The analytical method was designed to prevent artifactual formation of the target compounds.
Main Results:
- Confirmed the presence of trichochromes B and C in red human hair samples.
- The trichochrome precursor 5-S-cysteinyldopa was not detected in the analyzed red human hair.
Conclusions:
- The study validates the existence of trichochromes B and C as natural components of red human hair.
- Human red hair pigmentation pathways differ from those in guinea pigs, specifically regarding the absence of 5-S-cysteinyldopa.