Transcription factor that plays a key role in neuronal differentiation: acts as a pioneer transcription factor, accessing closed chromatin to allow other factors to bind and activate neural pathways (By similarity). Directly binds the E box motif (5'-CANNTG-3') on promoters and promotes transcription of neuronal genes (PubMed:8443105). The combination of three transcription factors, ASCL1, POU3F2/BRN2 and MYT1L, is sufficient to reprogram fibroblasts and other somatic cells into induced neuronal (iN) cells in vitro (By similarity). Efficient DNA binding requires dimerization with another bHLH protein. Neuronal precursor cells. Expressed in the embryonic anterior central nervous system. In the forebrain, and then in the eye and hindbrain.