Enables DNA-binding transcription activator activity, RNA polymerase II-specific. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including negative regulation of neuron apoptotic process; nervous system development; and sensory perception of sound. Located in nucleus. Is expressed in several structures, including central nervous system; ear; future brain; heart; and urinary system. Orthologous to human BARHL1 (BarH like homeobox 1). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]