M
magnesium [mag knee zee um]
A trace metal used by the body to maintain good muscles, nerves, and bones.
melanin [mel uh nin]
Any of various dark brown or black pigments (coloring agents) found in animal or plant structures, including skin, hair or the iris of the eye.
melanocytes [mel an o cites]
The cells of the epidermis (skin) that produce melanin or brown pigmentation.
melanoma [mel an o ma]
A dangerous type of skin cancer that contains dark pigment and that can metastasize or spread rapidly.
metabolism [muh ta bo lism]
The chemical and physical processes involved when living organisms grow, live, and carry out all the other functions of life.
mineral [min er al]
A chemical element or compound, such as iron, that living things need for proper function of tissues and cells.