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Gene Explorer / OCA2

OCA2

TraitFunStrong evidenceBackground

A major influence on eye color - brown, blue, green and in-between.

OCA2 (with nearby HERC2 regulation) is the best-known eye-color gene. Variants shift how much melanin sits in the iris - one of the most visible “genetic selfie” traits, even though several genes fine-tune the shade.

Also known as: eye color, HERC2

Associated with

  • eye color
  • blue eyes
  • brown eyes
  • appearance

Educational only. Significant findings should be reviewed with a clinician.

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Educational reference only — not a diagnosis. Discuss significant findings with a clinician.