May play a broad role in neurogenesis. May control regulatory pathways relevant to schizophrenia and to psychotic illness. Efficient DNA binding requires dimerization with another bHLH protein. Interacts with ARNT; forms a heterodimer that binds core DNA sequence 5'-[AG]CGTG-3' within the hypoxia response element (HRE) of target gene promoters (PubMed:27782878). Detected exclusively in adult brain in inhibitory interneurons. Expression detected between 9.5 and 11.5 dpc in the developing neural tube. Was also expressed throughout the neuroepithelium of the developing central nervous system between 10. 5 and 12.5 dpc at 14.5 dpc, the expression became restricted to the neopallial layer of the cortex. At 12.5 dpc, expression was evident in nonneural tissues such as the developing dermis and mesenchyme surrounding the otic and nasal placodes. Expression was also detected in the developing cardiac valves, limb and developing kidney.