Enables DNA-binding transcription activator activity, RNA polymerase II-specific and DNA-binding transcription repressor activity, RNA polymerase II-specific. Acts upstream of or within detection of visible light; regulation of transcription, DNA-templated; and retina morphogenesis in camera-type eye. Predicted to be active in nucleus. Is expressed in several structures, including central nervous system; endocardial lining; genitourinary system; limb; and retina. Orthologous to human IRX6 (iroquois homeobox 6). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]