Enables DNA-binding transcription activator activity, RNA polymerase II-specific; RNA polymerase II cis-regulatory region sequence-specific DNA binding activity; and chromatin binding activity. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including male genitalia development; morphogenesis of an epithelium; and regulation of branching involved in prostate gland morphogenesis. Located in nucleus. Is expressed in several structures, including genitourinary system; hindgut; limb; limb bud; and tail. Used to study synpolydactyly. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in brachydactyly-syndactyly syndrome; clubfoot; cryptorchidism; and dysostosis (multiple). Orthologous to human HOXD13 (homeobox D13). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]