ABSTRACT The goal of this review was to explore the structure and function of neuromelanin and the role it plays in homeostasis and neurodegeneration by consolidating and synthesizing published scientific information in this area. This paper gives an overview of both healthy neuromelanin function and pathological neurodegenerative processes. Neuromelanin can play both a protective role and/or a damaging neurotoxic role. This review explores and highlights in more detail the roles, structure and function of neuromelanin and possible ways to alleviate the damaging effects.