MITF Antibodies

Target Information

Transcription factor that regulates the expression of genes with essential roles in cell differentiation, proliferation and survival. Binds to M-boxes (5'-TCATGTG-3') and 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. Belongs to the MiT/TFE family. Isoform M is exclusively expressed in melanocytes and melanoma cells. Isoform A and isoform H are widely expressed in many cell types including melanocytes and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Isoform C is expressed in many cell types including RPE but not in melanocyte-lineage cells. Isoform Mdel is widely expressed in melanocytes, melanoma cell lines and tissues, but almost undetectable in non-melanoma cell lines. 12 alternatively spliced human isoforms have been reported. Note: This description may include information from UniProtKB.

Alternate Names

BHLHE32; Class E basic helix-loop-helix protein 32; CMM8; COMMAD; homolog of mouse microphthalmia; melanocyte inducing transcription factor; melanogenesis associated transcription factor; MI; microphtalmia-associated transcription factor; Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor; microphthalmia-associated transcription factor-M transcript; MITF; WS2; WS2A