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Skin Deep

Solutions in squid skin?

08 May 2020

Skin Deep

Animals often uses colour to communicate – pattern of pigments in feathers, fur or skin used to warn, threaten or welcome others. Recent research suggests the Humboldt squid (Dosidicus gigas), creates similarly chatty pigment patterns. They might be completely missed in the dark depths of the Pacific Ocean were it not a feat of biological illumination – photophores beneath the squid’s skin produce luminescence which light up the pigment patterns from behind a bit like a TV screen. Elsewhere, scientists have discovered that one of its pigments, called ommochrome, has anti-microbial and anti-mutagenic properties. While Humboldt squid is often caught for its valuable tentacles, its skin is often disposed of, and may be a sustainable source of colourful compounds used to prolong the life of food, or reduce the risk of cancers.

Written by John Ankers

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BPoD stands for Biomedical Picture of the Day. Managed by the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences until Jul 2023, it is now run independently by a dedicated team of scientists and writers. The website aims to engage everyone, young and old, in the wonders of biology, and its influence on medicine. The ever-growing archive of more than 4000 research images documents over a decade of progress. Explore the collection and see what you discover. Images are kindly provided for inclusion on this website through the generosity of scientists across the globe.

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