Transcription factor that binds to DNA at the consensus sequence 5'-CAG[GC]TG-3' (By similarity). Positively regulates the determination of retinal ganglion cell fate and formation of the optic nerve and retino-hypothalamic tract (PubMed:11124117, PubMed:15342472, PubMed:16260616). Required for retinal circadian rhythm photoentrainment (By similarity). Plays a role in brainstem auditory signaling and binaural processing (By similarity). During retinal neurogenesis, activates its own transcription, as well as the transcription of CHRNB3 and BRN3 (PubMed:11172005). Expressed in the developing retina, and in a tiny population of ventricular cells located in the ventral domain of the spinal cord and hindbrain. Retinal expression peaks at stage 29 (E6). Up-regulated by NGN2 and ATOH7. Down-regulated by HES1. The basic motif confers specificity for the CHRNB3 promoter.