The TFIID basal transcription factor complex plays a major role in the initiation of RNA polymerase II (Pol II)-dependent transcription (By similarity). TFIID recognizes and binds promoters via its subunit tbp-1, a TATA-box-binding protein, and promotes assembly of the pre-initiation complex (PIC) (By similarity). The TFIID complex consists of tbp-1 and TBP-associated factors (TAFs) (By similarity). General transcription factor that functions at the core of the TFIID complex (PubMed:8415761). Component of the TFIID basal transcription factor complex, composed of TATA-box-binding protein tbp-1, and a number of TBP-associated factors (TAFs) (By similarity). Binds DNA as monomer (PubMed:8415761). Expressed in the early embryo, in the germ line and in all somatic nuclei beginning at the pronuclear stage. Belongs to the TBP family.