Transcription factor that is involved in the regulation of muscle stem cells proliferation, playing a role in myogenesis and muscle regeneration. Can bind to DNA as a heterodimer with PAX3. Interacts with PAXBP1; the interaction links PAX7 to a WDR5-containing histone methyltransferase complex (By similarity). Interacts with DAXX (PubMed:10393185). The gene represented in this entry is involved in disease pathogenesis. A chromosomal aberration involving PAX7 is found in rhabdomyosarcoma. Translocation t(1;13)(p36;q14) with FOXO1. The resulting protein is a transcriptional activator. The disease is caused by variants affecting the gene represented in this entry. Belongs to the paired homeobox family.