An albino individual is unable to produce what substance?

An albino individual is unable to produce melanin, which is the pigment responsible for coloring skin, hair, and eyes. Melanin plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In individuals with albinism, a genetic mutation affects the enzymes necessary for melanin production, leading to a significant reduction or absence of this pigment. This lack of melanin results in the characteristic pale skin, light hair, and light-colored eyes typical of albinism, as well as increased sensitivity to sun exposure and an elevated risk of skin cancer.

The other substances mentioned: carotene, hemoglobin, and cholesterol, are produced independently of melanin synthesis and do not relate to the pigmentation issues seen in albino individuals. Carotene is another type of pigment found in carrots and other vegetables, hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying component in red blood cells, and cholesterol is a lipid important for cell membrane integrity and hormone production. These substances are not affected by the genetic factors that lead to albinism.