Binds to the telomeric DNA sequence 5'-TTAGGC-3', requiring at least 1.5 repeats for binding. Bends telomeric DNA and may provide chromosome stability. Also required for development of AWB olfactory neurons. Binds to telomeres. Broadly expressed during early embryonic development. During later embryonic stages, expression is detected in AWB olfactory sensory neurons but is absent from there by early L1 larval stages. Expression in non-neuronal cells including the excretory cell and intestine is maintained through adult stages. Expression starts during embryogenesis and continues into adulthood. The N-terminal and homeobox regions are together sufficient to bind telomeric DNA. The C-terminal region is required for bending of telomeric DNA. Belongs to the paired homeobox family.