This gene encodes a transcription factor that contains both basic helix-loop-helix and leucine zipper structural features. It regulates the differentiation and development of melanocytes retinal pigment epithelium and is also responsible for pigment cell-specific transcription of the melanogenesis enzyme genes. Heterozygous mutations in the this gene cause auditory-pigmentary syndromes, such as Waardenburg syndrome type 2 and Tietz syndrome. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been identified. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008],CMM8, COMMAD, MI, WS2, WS2A, bHLHe32,Cell Intrinsic Innate Immunity Signaling Pathway,Epigenetics & Nuclear Signaling,Immunology & Inflammation,MAPK-Erk Signaling Pathway,Signal Transduction,Transcription Factors,MITF