Transcription factor that plays a role in the differentiation and function of the CO(2)- and O(2)-sensing BAG neurons (PubMed:21954162, PubMed:22479504, PubMed:30890567). The BAG neurons are required for the behavioral avoidance of environmental CO(2) and the sensing of decreased O(2) levels (PubMed:21954162, PubMed:22479504, PubMed:28193866). Promotes the expression of genes that play a role in CO(2)- and O(2)-sensing and in egg-laying in the BAG neurons (PubMed:21954162). Positively regulates the transcription of the receptor-type guanylate cyclase gcy-9, which is a critical component of the CO(2) transduction pathway, in the BAG neurons (PubMed:22479504). May mediate transcriptional activation by binding to the motif 5'-ACTTCCG-3' (PubMed:22479504, PubMed:30890567). Acts in the BAG and ASG neurons to regulate intestinal fat levels and to promote exploratory behavior, possibly by regulating neuropeptidergic signaling (PubMed:28193866). Expressed in a subset of head neurons, including the BAG sensory neurons, the AWA amphid neurons and the ASG sensory neurons. Expressed throughout development and in adult animals (PubMed:21954162). First expressed in the embryonic BAG neurons (PubMed:30890567). Lack of CO(2) avoidance behavior (PubMed:21954162, PubMed:22479504). Down-regulation of genes required for BAG neuron differentiation and function (PubMed:21954162, PubMed:22479504). Reduction in exploratory behavior and an increase of animals in the quiescent state (PubMed:28193866). Unable to sense downsteps of O(2) (PubMed:28193866). Increased intestinal fat storage (PubMed:28193866). Belongs to the ETS family.