Enables protein heterodimerization activity. Contributes to sequence-specific DNA binding activity. Involved in several processes, including Malpighian tubule development; chaeta morphogenesis; and positive regulation of antibacterial peptide biosynthetic process. Located in nucleus. Part of transcription regulator complex. Is expressed in several structures, including adult thoracic mechanosensory chaeta; imaginal disc; neurogenic region; procephalic segment; and somatic precursor cell. Orthologous to several human genes including ASCL2 (achaete-scute family bHLH transcription factor 2).
FB Description
achaete (ac) encodes a BHLH transcription factor that interacts antagonistically with the Notch signaling pathway to promote neural precursor formation. Its major role is in nervous system development.