Enables DNA-binding transcription factor activity, RNA polymerase II-specific; E-box binding activity; and chromatin binding activity. Contributes to DNA binding activity. Involved in embryonic hemopoiesis; positive regulation of erythrocyte differentiation; and regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II. Acts upstream of with a positive effect on transcription by RNA polymerase II. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including hemopoiesis; neurogenesis; and regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II. Located in nucleus. Part of transcription regulator complex. Is expressed in several structures, including central nervous system; embryo mesenchyme; extraembryonic component; hemolymphoid system; and sensory organ. Used to study lymphoid leukemia. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Orthologous to human TAL1 (TAL bHLH transcription factor 1, erythroid differentiation factor).
MGI Description
PHENOTYPE: Homozygous targeted null mutants show retarded growth, edema, lack yolk sac hematopoiesis and die at embryonic day 9.5-10.5. Conditional mutants show loss of megakaryocyte and erhythrocyte progenitors resulting in low hematocrit and platelet count. [provided by MGI curators]