Transcription factor involved in specification of neuronal cell types and which is required for inner ear and hypothalamus development. Binds to the 5'-CAAGTG-3' core sequence (By similarity). Expressed in the ear placode and vesicle and in cells forming the vestibulo-acoustic ganglion. Also expressed in the lateral line. Regulated by fgf3 and fgf8 in otic vesicle. Belongs to the HMX homeobox family.