Applications of affinity chromatography to the study of drug–melanin binding interactions

This short review reports on progresses in the study of drug–melanin interactions using the technique of affinity chromatography. Melanins are natural or synthetic pigments derived from the oxidation and polymerization of various precursors including l-dopa, tyrosine and cystein. Accumulation of toxic compounds, drugs, and metal ions in pigmented tissues through reversible binding to melanin has been linked to chronic toxicity. Affinity chromatography using chromatographic stationary phases based on physically adsorbed or chemically bonded melanin provides a useful tool for studying the interactions of small molecules and metal ions with melanin