MITF, together with transcription factor EB (TFEB), TFE3 and TFEC, belong to a subfamily of related bHLHZip proteins, termed the MiT-TFE family of transcription factors. The factors are able to form stable DNA-binding homo- and heterodimers. The gene that encodes for MITF resides at the "mi" locus in mice, and its protumorogenic targets include factors involved in cell death, DNA replication, repair, mitosis, microRNA production, membrane trafficking, mitochondrial metabolism, and much more. Mutation of this gene results in deafness, bone loss, small eyes, and poorly pigmented eyes and skin. In human subjects, because it is known that MITF controls the expression of various genes that are essential for normal melanin synthesis in melanocytes, mutations of MITF can lead to diseases such as melanoma, Waardenburg syndrome, and Tietz syndrome. Its function is conserved across vertebrates, including in fishes such as zebrafish and "Xiphophorus".