Probable transcription factor with a role in the retinal determination (RD) network. Regulates ato expression and is required for normal R8 induction and differentiation. Danr appears to repress Dan expression, but Dan is required for Danr expression anterior to the morphogenetic furrow (MF). Dan and Danr lie downstream of so and require dac function for highest levels of expression. Contributes to differentiation of antenna-specific characteristics; effector gene that acts downstream of homothorax (hth), Distal-less (Dll), cut (ct) and spineless (ss) genes to control differentiation of distal antennal structures (By similarity). Homomers. Interacts with itself, danr, ey and dac to form a complex (or complexes) containing the RD factors (By similarity).