Transcription factor that plays an important role in cellular development and cell survival. Recognizes and binds to the DNA sequence 5'-GCG(T/G)GGGCG-3'. Regulates the expression of numerous target genes. Plays an essential role for development of the urogenital system. It has a tumor suppressor as well as an oncogenic role in tumor formation. Function may be isoform-specific: isoforms lacking the KTS motif may act as transcription factors. Isoforms containing the KTS motif may bind mRNA and play a role in mRNA metabolism or splicing. Shuttles between nucleus and cytoplasm. Binds to DNA motifs with the sequence 5'-GCG(T/G)GGGCG-3' via its C2H2-type zinc fingers. Starting from the N-terminus, the second zinc finger binds to the 3'-GCG motif, the middle zinc finger interacts with the central TGG motif, and the C-terminal zinc finger binds to the 5'-GCG motif. Binds double-stranded target DNA, irrespective of the cytosine methylation status. Has reduced affinity for target DNA where the cytosines have been oxidized to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, 5-formylcytosine or 5-carboxylcytosine. The 9aaTAD motif is a transactivation domain present in a large number of yeast and animal transcription factors. Presence of the KTS motif hinders interactions between DNA and zinc-finger 4. Belongs to the EGR C2H2-type zinc-finger protein family.