Transcriptional repressor that plays a central role for embryogenesis and the pluripotency of embryonic stem (ES) cells. Sequence-specific DNA-binding factor that represses gene expression in pluripotent ES cells by directly binding to key genetic loci and recruiting epigenetic modifiers (By similarity). Interacts (via coiled coil domain) with HCFC1. May be regulated by shuttling of the protein between the cytoplasm and nucleus. The length of the poly-Gln region is variable in the population. Belongs to the THAP11 family.