Transcriptional activator that controls bicoid gene expression during oogenesis. Found in transcriptionally active cells. Binds to specific sites on polytene chromosomes of third instar larvae. Binds to the consensus DNA sequence 5'-YTAGAGATGGRAA-3'. Binds DNA as a homodimer. N-terminal regions of the protein are required, in addition to the zinc fingers, for the specificity of chromatin-binding. Predominantly localized to the sub- and supraesophagal ganglia and the ventral nerve cord in the embryo, after dorsal closure. Expressed both maternally and zygotically. Found in ovaries and abundant in early embryos. Also found in variable amounts at every stage of the life cycle.