Transcriptional regulator. Activates transcription by binding to the E box-containing promoter (By similarity). Mediates neuronal differentiation. Required for the development of Rohon-Beard spinal sensory neurons and dorsal root ganglion neurons, but not for primary motoneurons or autonomic neurons. Required for development of all cranial ganglia but not associated glial cells. Regulates epiphysial neurogenesis, acting partially redundantly with ascl1a and downstream of flh. Required for the development of basal forebrain dopaminergic neurons; involved in the specification of dopaminergic progenitor cells. May be involved in maintaining rhombomere boundaries in the hindbrain.
