这个基因编码的酶催化酪氨酸转化为黑色素的前两步，以及至少一步。该酶具有酪氨酸羟化酶和多巴氧化酶催化活性，并且需要铜作为功能。该基因突变导致眼皮肤白化病，非病理性多态性导致皮肤色素沉着变化。人类基因组中含有一个与此基因3'一半相似的假基因。[由RefSeq提供，2008年10月]
The enzyme encoded by this gene catalyzes the first 2 steps, and at least 1 subsequent step, in the conversion of tyrosine to melanin. The enzyme has both tyrosine hydroxylase and dopa oxidase catalytic activities, and requires copper for function. Mutations in this gene result in oculocutaneous albinism, and nonpathologic polymorphisms result in skin pigmentation variation. The human genome contains a pseudogene similar to the 3' half of this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Oct 2008]