This gene encodes a member of the pterin-dependent aromatic acid hydroxylase family. The encoded protein catalyzes the first and rate limiting step in the biosynthesis of serotonin, an important hormone and neurotransmitter. Mutations in this gene may be associated with psychiatric diseases such as bipolar affective disorder and major depression. [provided by RefSeq, Feb 2016],catalytic activity:L-tryptophan + tetrahydrobiopterin + O(2) = 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan + 4a-hydroxytetrahydrobiopterin.,cofactor:Fe(2+) ion.,disease:Genetic variation in TPH2 may influence susceptibility to major depressive disorder (MDD) [MIM:608516].,pathway:Aromatic compound metabolism, serotonin biosynthesis, serotonin from L-tryptophan: step 1/2.,similarity:Belongs to the biopterin-dependent aromatic amino acid hydroxylase family.,similarity:Contains 1 ACT domain.,tissue specificity:Brain specific.,
