From genesis to gene sequencing: historical progress in the understanding of skin color.
Since at least biblical times, humans have pondered on why there might be variation in skin color and what might constitute the nature of that difference. In this article, two historical trails are followed, one beginning with the Ancient Greeks, the other with the Ancient Chinese. These two paths converge to provide us with some historical evidence to back recent scientific discoveries in the dynamic regulation of skin pigmentation, focusing on melanocyte-stimulating hormone and its natural antagonist agouti-signaling protein.
Millington
George W M
GW
Dermatology Department, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich, UK. george.millington@nnuh.nhs.uk
Levell
Nick J
NJ
D000818:Animals; D003880:Dermatology / Q000266:history; D049669:History, 16th Century; D049670:History, 17th Century; D049671:History, 18th Century; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049690:History, Ancient; D006801:Humans; D012880:Skin Pigmentation / Q000235:genetics