Transcription activator that binds DNA cooperatively with DP proteins through the E2 recognition site, 5'-TTTC[CG]CGC-3' found in the promoter region of a number of genes whose products are involved in cell cycle regulation or in DNA replication. The DRTF1/E2F complex functions in the control of cell-cycle progression from g1 to s phase. E2F2 binds specifically to RB1 in a cell-cycle dependent manner. Component of the DRTF1/E2F transcription factor complex. Forms heterodimers with DP family members. The E2F2 complex binds specifically hypophosphorylated retinoblastoma protein RB1. During the cell cycle, RB1 becomes phosphorylated in mid-to-late G1 phase, detaches from the DRTF1/E2F complex, rendering E2F transcriptionally active. Viral oncoproteins, notably E1A, T-antigen and HPV E7, are capable of sequestering RB protein, thus releasing the active complex. Binds EAPP. Expressed in the developing epidermis and intestinal epithelium. First detected in the epidermis at stage 13.5-14.5 dpc with higher levels in the head and thorax regions. At 15.5 dpc, expression is found in both the epithelium and, to a lesser extent in the underlying mesenchyme. At day 16.5 dpc, high expression in the basal cells. Later expression is found in the developing hair follicles, around the dermal papillae. In the developing intestinal epithelium, expression first observed around 14.5 dpc. Levels continue to increase at least until 19.5 dpc, with highest levels in the intervillus epithelium and in the bottom half of the villi. In the nervous system, first expressed at 9.5 dpc, in the forebrain. At 10.5 dpc, expressed broadly in the brain, and at lower levels in the upper regions of the spinal cord. By 11.5 dpc, E2F2 expression is found throughout the central nervous system and levels peak at 12.5-15.5 dpc. In the developing spinal cord, E2F2 expression found only in the dorsal region. In the developing retina, highest expression found in the 14.5-18.5 dpc embryonic retinoblastic cell layer. In other developing tissues, E2F2 is found highest in thymus and liver, with lower expression in lung, heart, kidney and skeletal muscle. Also found in choroid plexus and chondrocytes. Phosphorylated by CDK2 and cyclin A-CDK2 in the S-phase. Belongs to the E2F/DP family.