Biosynthesis and Characterization of Melanin Extracted From Solanum tuberosum and Mucuna deeringiana

A growing interest in finding accessible and low-cost sources of melanin has emerged due to its wide range of applications. This work demonstrated the use of Mucuna deeringiana as a source of L-DOPA, and Solanum tuberosum of tyrosinase in eumelanin biosynthesis. The protocol employed crude extracts, resulting in significant melanin production (67%). The resulting melanin exhibits an amorphous structure, high thermal stability, and strong UV absorption, with an antioxidant capacity comparable to vitamin C. These findings underscore the potential of M. deeringiana as a source of melanin with promising properties.