Probable transcription factor (PubMed:23788625). Binds to the sequence motif 5'-ATAAT-3' in regulatory elements (PubMed:23788625). Required for development of the anterior hypodermis during embryonic morphogenesis for cell adhesion; also affects embryonic and larval viability (PubMed:11747075). Modulates and maintains dopaminergic neuron differentiation (PubMed:23788625). May activate dopamine pathway genes in concert with ETS domain-containing protein ast-1, and homeobox proteins ceh-40 and ceh-20 (PubMed:23788625). Predominantly expressed in the head hypdodermis, neuronal support cells and CAN neurons. Expressed in dopaminergic neurons throughout the life of the neurons. Belongs to the distal-less homeobox family.