Enables several functions, including DNA-binding transcription activator activity, RNA polymerase II-specific; histone methyltransferase activity (H3-K9 specific); and transcription coactivator activity. Involved in several processes, including brown fat cell differentiation; positive regulation of cold-induced thermogenesis; and regulation of transcription, DNA-templated. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including negative regulation of transforming growth factor beta receptor signaling pathway; positive regulation of brown fat cell differentiation; and tongue development. Located in nucleus. Part of transcription repressor complex. Is expressed in several structures, including alimentary system; branchial arch; central nervous system; embryo mesenchyme; and sensory organ. Orthologous to human PRDM16 (PR/SET domain 16). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]