This gene encodes a protein that may play a role in organelle biogenesis associated with melanosomes, platelet dense granules, and lysosomes. A similar protein in mouse is a component of a protein complex termed biogenesis of lysosome-related organelles complex 1 (BLOC-1), and binds to alpha- and beta-dystrobrevins, which are components of the dystrophin-associated protein complex (DPC). Mutations in this gene are associated with Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome type 7. This gene may also be associated with schizophrenia. Multiple transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms have been identified for this gene. (provided by RefSeq)
Function: The BLOC-1 complex is required for normal biogenesis of lysosome-related organelles, such as platelet dense granules and melanosomes. Plays a role in intracellular vesicle trafficking. Plays a role in synaptic vesicle trafficking and in neurotransmitter release. May be required for normal dopamine homeostasis in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus. Plays a role in the regulation of cell surface exposure of DRD2. Contributes to the regulation of dopamine signaling. May play a role in actin cytoskeleton reorganization and neurite outgrowth. May modulate MAPK8 phosphorylation.