Nuclear receptor transcription factor that binds to DNA enhancer elements to promote the transcription of genes required to maintain micronutrient homeostasis. Direct binding to its ligand zinc allows for nuclear accumulation and activation, which thereby induces the transcription of genes required to promote the storage and detoxification of excess dietary zinc. This in turn, allows for internal zinc levels to be detected and regulated. Localizes to the cytoplasm in the absence of excess zinc, but accumulates in the nucleus when zinc is in excess. Weakly expressed in intestinal cells in the absence of zinc supplementation. Upon zinc supplementation, accumulates in alimentary tract cells, and it is mainly expressed in the intestine. Induced by high levels of zinc. In the presence of excess dietary zinc, reduced transcription of genes such as cdf-2, ttm-1b and mtl-1, which are required for zinc homeostasis, and retarded growth as compared to wild-type. Belongs to the nuclear hormone receptor family.