This gene is a homeobox-containing gene expressed during development. The expressed protein contains two conserved domains, a C-peptide (or aristaless domain) and the prd-like class homeobox domain. It is a member of the group-II aristaless-related protein family whose members are expressed primarily in the central and/or peripheral nervous system. This gene is thought to be involved in CNS development. Expansion of a polyalanine tract and other mutations in this gene cause X-linked mental retardation and epilepsy. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2016],