This gene encodes a zinc-finger transcription factor that regulates smooth muscle cell differentiation in the developing urinary tract. Consistent with this role, mice in which this gene has been inactivated exhibit abnormal gene expression in urinary tract smooth muscle cell precursors and kidney defects including hydronephrosis. The encoded transcription factor comprises a gene silencing complex that inhibits caspase expression. Reduced expression of this gene and consequent caspase upregulation may be correlated with progression of Alzheimer's disease in human patients. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2016],