Dopaquinone is a chemical compound that plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of skin, hair, and eyes. It is formed from the oxidation of L-DOPA, an amino acid that is a precursor to dopamine. This process occurs in specialized cells called melanocytes. In addition to its role in pigmentation, dopaquinone is involved in various biochemical pathways. It can undergo further reactions to produce different types of melanin, such as eumelanin and pheomelanin, which contribute to the diversity of colors seen in nature.