Transcription factor that induces gliogenesis. It determines the choice between glial and neuronal fates. Also has a role in the differentiation of the plasmatocyte/macrophage lineage of hemocytes. Expressed transiently in early glial cells. Flies exhibit failure of glia to differentiate in the CNS and in the PNS, glia are transformed into neurons. Ectopic expression causes neurons to transform to glia.