Enables DNA-binding transcription activator activity, RNA polymerase II-specific; chromatin binding activity; and nucleic acid binding activity. Involved in negative regulation of photoreceptor cell differentiation; positive regulation of amacrine cell differentiation; and positive regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including negative regulation of Notch signaling pathway; nervous system development; and skeletal system development. Located in nucleus. Is expressed in several structures, including branchial arch; embryo ectoderm; genitourinary system; sensory organ; and tooth. Orthologous to human DLX2 (distal-less homeobox 2). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]