Enables DNA-binding transcription activator activity, RNA polymerase II-specific and sequence-specific double-stranded DNA binding activity. Involved in several processes, including nervous system development; positive regulation of cold-induced thermogenesis; and regulation of respiratory gaseous exchange by nervous system process. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including nervous system development; regulation of neuron differentiation; and skeletal muscle cell differentiation. Located in nucleus. Is expressed in several structures, including adrenal gland; alimentary system; epibranchial placode; genitourinary system; and nervous system. Used to study congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. Orthologous to human PHOX2B (paired like homeobox 2B). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]