Enables several functions, including DNA-binding transcription repressor activity, RNA polymerase II-specific; transcription corepressor activity; and transcription corepressor binding activity. Involved in several processes, including cellular response to fluid shear stress; positive regulation of cell population proliferation; and regulation of myotube differentiation. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including negative regulation of macromolecule metabolic process; negative regulation of osteoblast differentiation; and osteoblast development. Located in several cellular components, including axonal growth cone; chromatin; and nuclear body. Part of RNA polymerase II transcription repressor complex. Is expressed in several structures, including central nervous system; early embryo; head bone; sensory organ; and upper arm. Orthologous to human HDAC5 (histone deacetylase 5). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]