Synonyms:bHLHe32, MI, MITF, WS2A Background:Transcription factor that regulates the expression of genes with essential roles in cell differentiation, proliferation and survival. Binds to symmetrical DNA sequences(E-boxes)(5'-CACGTG-3') found in the promoters of target genes, such as BCL2 and tyrosinase(TYR). Plays an important role in melanocyte development by regulating the expression of tyrosinase(TYR) and tyrosinase-related protein 1(TYRP1). Plays a critical role in the differentiation of various cell types, such as neural crest-derived melanocytes, mast cells, osteoclasts and optic cup-derived retinal pigment epithelium.