Plays a role in melanin biosynthesis ( ). Catalyzes the oxidation of 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid (DHICA) into indole-5,6-quinone-2-carboxylic acid in the presence of bound Cu(2+) ions, but not in the presence of Zn(2+) . May regulate or influence the type of melanin synthesized (, ). Also to a lower extent, capable of hydroxylating tyrosine and producing melanin (By similarity).
Subcellular locations: Melanosome membrane
Located to mature stage III and IV melanosomes and apposed endosomal tubular membranes. Transported to pigmented melanosomes by the BLOC-1 complex. Proper trafficking to melanosome is regulated by SGSM2, ANKRD27, RAB9A, RAB32 and RAB38.
Pigment cells.