Transcription factor that has both positive and negative roles on transcription. Required for the maintenance of embryonic stem cell identity and the reacquisition of pluripotency in somatic cells. May play an essential role in germ cell development at 2 levels: the reacquisition of potential pluripotency, including SOX2 up-regulation, and successful epigenetic reprogramming, characterized by EHMT1 repression. Its association with CBFA2T2 is required for the functions in pluripotency and germ cell formation (By similarity). Directly up-regulates the expression of pluripotency gene POU5F1 through its proximal enhancer. Binds to the DNA consensus sequence 5'-GGTC[TC]CTAA-3'. Interacts with CBFA2T2. Expressed in embryonic stem cells. Tends to be overexpressed in breast cancer (at protein level). The first 5 zinc fingers, but not the last one, are required for DNA-binding and transcriptional activity. Belongs to the class V-like SAM-binding methyltransferase superfamily.