In the epidermis, which cell type produces pigment?

• A. Keratinocytes
• B. Langerhans cells
• C. Merkel cells
• D. Melanocytes

Answer: (C)

Pigment production in the epidermis comes from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin. Melanocytes sit in the basal layer of the epidermis and synthesize melanin inside melanosomes. These melanosomes are then transferred to nearby keratinocytes, distributing pigment that contributes to skin color and helps shield skin cells from UV radiation.

Keratinocytes are the most abundant epidermal cells and are primarily responsible for forming the protective, keratin-rich outer layer. Langerhans cells act as immune sentinels, detecting and presenting antigens. Merkel cells are specialized for sensing light touch and contributing to sensory function. So, the pigment-producing function belongs to melanocytes, not the other cell types.