Receptor for tyrosine, L-DOPA and dopamine. After binding to L-DOPA, stimulates Ca(2+) influx into the cytoplasm, increases secretion of the neurotrophic factor SERPINF1 and relocalizes beta arrestin at the plasma membrane; this ligand-dependent signaling occurs through a G(q)-mediated pathway in melanocytic cells. Its activity is mediated by G proteins which activate the phosphoinositide signaling pathway. Also plays a role as an intracellular G protein-coupled receptor involved in melanosome biogenesis, organization and transport. Interacts with heterotrimeric G(i) proteins. Interacts with ARRB1 and ARRB2. Interacts with MLANA. Distributed throughout the endo-melanosomal system but most of endogenous protein is localized in unpigmented stage II melanosomes. Its expression on the apical cell membrane is sensitive to tyrosine (PubMed:18828673). Expressed at high levels in the retina, including the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and in melanocytes. Weak expression is observed in brain and adrenal gland. The cytoplasmic domain 3 and the C-terminus tail domain contain the lysosomal sorting signals and are necessary and sufficient for intracellular retention and delivery to lysosomal and melanosomal, respectively in melanocytic and non-melanocytic cells. Glycosylated. Phosphorylated. The disease is caused by variants affecting the gene represented in this entry. The disease is caused by variants affecting the gene represented in this entry. Belongs to the G-protein coupled receptor OA family. Extended N-terminus. Extended N-terminus. Extended N-terminus. Retina International's Scientific Newsletter GPR143 mutations