The melanocyte in vertebrate evolution

The evolution of the mammalian pigment cell, the melanocyte, is linked to the evolution of the neural crest cell (NCC), from which they derive. These cells are a transient, multipotent, migratory cells of ectodermal origin. They are of relatively recent evolutionary origin, found only in vertebrate embryos and represent a highly multipotent population of embryonic stem cells. The particular features of tissues derived from neural crest cells allowed sessile filter-feeding ancestors to evolve into an active, mobile predator, rapidly ascending to the top of the food chain. In particular, the evolution of an animal with a head, containing an osseous jaw with dentition combined with a concentration of advanced sensory systems. This was supported by an improved endocrine system and effective neural transmission from peripheral sensors, allowing fast and reliable regulation of function by the central nervous system (CNS). As a part of this more mobile predatory system the melanocyte provided, at the periphery, both camouflage and a mechanism to monitor and counter the mutagenic effects of increased ultraviolet radiation exposure associated with this more active life-style.