Research on human albinism has been central to many of the major discoveries in 
human genetics. These include the first evidence that Mendel's rules of genetic 
segregation apply to humans, first published in 1903. Contrary to initial 
thought that albinism is caused by mutations in a single gene, we now know that 
the genetics of albinism are complex. The complexity of albinism was hinted at, 
in early publications, but has only recently been fully appreciated with the 
advent of molecular techniques. Currently, 12 different genes have been 
identified, that when mutated, result in a different type of albinism. 
Oculocutaneous albinism type 1 (OCA1), resulting from mutations of the 
tyrosinase gene, is genetically and biochemically the best understood type of 
albinism. Though much of the research in albinism has involved OCA1, there are 
many unanswered questions about OCA1 and albinism, in general. The next 100 yr 
should still provide many surprises as did the first 100 yr.