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Name: Gerry A Adams
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Question:
What causes albinos?


Replies:
Albinism, or the absence of coloration, in humans is usually due to the absence of melanin pigments. This is usually due to the absence of an enzyme called tyrosinase. Tyrosinase is needed to convert tyrosine to a compound called DOPA, which is eventually converted into melanin pigments. Tyrosinase-negative albinism is inherited as a recessive trait. Source: Mange and Mange, Genetics: Human Aspects (1980).

Brian Schwartz


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