NCIt definition : Human MITF wild-type allele is located within 3p14.2-p14.1 and is approximately 229
kb in length. This allele, which encodes microphthalmia-associated transcription factor
protein, plays a role in both the differentiation of various cell types and the development
of melanocytes in the retinal pigment epithelium. Deletion mutations in this gene
are associated with both Waardenburg syndrome type IIA and Tietz syndrome. Elevated
expression of this gene has been found in chemotherapy-resistant melanomas.;
NCIt note : The MITF gene product regulates the transcription of the melanogenic enzyme genes,
including TYR and TYRP1. This gene encodes ten alternatively spliced isoforms that
differ in their cellular expression. For efficient DNA binding, the gene product requires
either homodimerization or formation of a heterodimer with another bHLH protein.;