Rab effector protein involved in melanosome transport. Serves as link between melanosome-bound RAB27A and the motor protein MYO5A. Binds RAB27A that has been activated by GTP-binding via its N-terminus. Binds MYO5A via its C-terminal coiled coil domain. An allelic variation in MLPH, resulting in a severely truncated protein, has been shown to be associated with the dilute coat color phenotype. This trait is autosomal recessive.