Amino acids
Natural substances that are the building blocks of protein. The body breaks down the protein in food into amino acids, and then uses these amino acids to create other proteins. The body also changes amino acids into melanin pigment.

Astigmatism
An eye condition in which the lens doesn't focus light evenly on the retina, leading to problems with visual sharpness.

Carrier
A person with one normal gene and one faulty gene, who can pass on a condition to others without actually having symptoms.

DNA
The abbreviation for "deoxyribonucleic acid," the primary carrier of genetic information found in the chromosomes of almost all organisms. The entwined double structure allows the chromosomes to be copied exactly during cell division.

DOPA
The common name for a natural chemical (3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine) made by the body during the process of making melanin.

Enzyme
A protein that helps the body convert one chemical substance to another.

Gene
The basic unit of genetic material carried in a particular place on a chromosome. Genes are passed on from parents to child when the sperm and egg unite during conception.

Hairbulb
The root of a strand of hair from which the color develops.

Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome (HPS)
A rare type of albinism characterized by a problem with blood clotting and a buildup of waxy material in lungs and intestines.

Melanin
Pigment made in the hair, skin and eyes. Nystagmus
An involuntary back-and-forth movement of the eyes that is often found in albinism. Strabismus
Crossed or "lazy" eyes, often found in albinism.

Tyrosine
A protein building block found in a wide variety of foods that is used by the body to make melanin.

Tyrosinase
An enzyme in a pigment cell which helps change tyrosine to DOPA during the process of making melanin.