<Tr> <Th> TH </Th> <Td> H2. 00.03. 0.01016 </Td> </Tr> <Tr> <Td_colspan="2"> Anatomical terms of microanatomy (edit on Wikidata) </Td> </Tr> <P> Melanocytes are melanin - producing neural crest - derived cells located in the bottom layer (the stratum basale) of the skin's epidermis, the middle layer of the eye (the uvea), the inner ear, vaginal epithelium, meninges, bones, and heart . Melanin is a dark pigment primarily responsible for skin color . Once synthesized, melanin is contained in special organelles called melanosomes which can be transported to nearby keratinocytes to induce pigmentation . Functionally, melanin serves as protection against UV radiation . Melanocytes also have a role in the immune system . </P> <P> Through a process called melanogenesis, melanocytes produce melanin, which is a pigment found in the skin, eyes, hair, nasal cavity, and inner ear . This melanogenesis leads to a long - lasting pigmentation, which is in contrast to the pigmentation that originates from oxidation of already - existing melanin . </P>

In which layer of the skin are melanocytes located