Albinism is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme tyrosinase. This enzyme is essential for the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to our skin, hair, and eyes.
Tyrosinase is a copper-containing enzyme that catalyzes the first two steps in the production of melanin. Mutations in the gene encoding tyrosinase cause oculocutaneous albinism Type 1 (OCA1), which is the most common type of albinism.
Individuals with albinism have a reduced or absent amount of melanin, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
- Light-colored skin, hair, and eyes
- Vision problems
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
There are different types of albinism, and the severity of the condition varies depending on the specific gene mutation.
