Sequence-specific DNA-binding protein that interacts with inducible viral and cellular enhancer elements to regulate transcription of selected genes. AP-2 factors bind to the consensus sequence 5'-GCCNNNGGC-3' and activate genes involved in a large spectrum of important biological functions including proper eye, face, body wall, limb and neural tube development. They also suppress a number of genes including MCAM/MUC18, C/EBP alpha and MYC. Binds DNA as a dimer. Can form homodimers or heterodimers with other AP-2 family members. Expressed in both embryonic and newborn brain. Expression is first detected at 9.5 dpc in the central nervous system and the developing heart. The signal detected in heart persists through to 10.5 dpc. Diffusely expressed in developing brain at 10.5 dpc to 11.5 dpc, but by 13.5 dpc expression is mostly confined to the midbrain and forebrain. Also expressed in the spinal cord at 10.5 dpc, and in retinal epithelium from 13.5 dpc to 16.5 dpc. No signals detected in tissues such as the neural crest, facial mesenchyme, and limbs where other Tfap2 genes are expressed. Belongs to the AP-2 family.