Melanosomes are specialized membrane-bound organelles that synthesize and organize melanin, ultimately providing color to the skin, hair, and eyes. Disorders in melanogenesis and melanosome transport are linked to pigmentary diseases, such as Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome, Chediak–Higashi syndrome, and Griscelli syndrome. Clinical cases of these pigmentary diseases shed light on the molecular mechanisms that control melanosome-related pathways. However, only an improved understanding of melanogenesis and melanosome transport will further the development of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Herein, we review the current literature surrounding melanosomes with particular emphasis on melanosome membrane transport and cytoskeleton-mediated melanosome transport. We also provide perspectives on melanosome regulatory mechanisms which include hormonal action, inflammation, autophagy, and organelle interactions.

黑色素体是专门的膜结合细胞器，可合成和组织黑色素，最终为皮肤、头发和眼睛提供颜色。黑素生成和黑素体转运障碍与色素性疾病有关，例如 Hermansky-Pudlak 综合征、Chediak-Higashi 综合征和 Griscelli 综合征。这些色素性疾病的临床病例揭示了控制黑素体相关通路的分子机制。然而，只有更好地了解黑素生成和黑素体转运才能进一步发展诊断和治疗方法。在此，我们回顾了当前有关黑素体的文献，特别强调黑素体膜转运和细胞骨架介导的黑素体转运。