Binds to DNA, at nuclear matrix- or scaffold-associated regions. Thought to recognize the sugar-phosphate structure of double-stranded DNA. Transcription factor controlling nuclear gene expression, by binding to matrix attachment regions (MARs) of DNA and inducing a local chromatin-loop remodeling. Acts as a docking site for several chromatin remodeling enzymes and also by recruiting corepressors (HDACs) or coactivators (HATs) directly to promoters and enhancers. Required for the initiation of the upper-layer neurons (UL1) specific genetic program and for the inactivation of deep-layer neurons (DL) and UL2 specific genes, probably by modulating BCL11B expression. Repressor of Ctip2 and regulatory determinant of corticocortical connections in the developing cerebral cortex. May play an important role in palate formation. Acts as a molecular node in a transcriptional network regulating skeletal development and osteoblast differentiation. Interacts with ATF4 and RUNX2; resulting in enhanced DNA binding and transactivation by these transcription factors (By similarity). Interacts with PIAS1. High expression in adult brain, moderate expression in fetal brain, and weak expression in adult liver, kidney, and spinal cord and in select brain regions, including amygdala, corpus callosum, caudate nucleus, and hippocampus. Sumoylated by PIAS1. Sumoylation promotes nuclear localization, but represses transcription factor activity. Chromosomal aberrations involving SATB2 are found in isolated cleft palate. Translocation t(2;7); translocation t(2;11). The disease may be caused by variants affecting the gene represented in this entry. A chromosomal aberration involving SATB2 is found in a patient with classical features of Toriello-Carey syndrome. Translocation t(2;14)(q33;q22). Belongs to the CUT homeobox family.