Sequence-specific DNA-binding protein that interacts with inducible viral and cellular enhancer elements to regulate transcription of selected genes. AP2 factors bind to the consensus sequence 5'-GCCNNNGGC-3' and activate genes involved in a large spectrum of important biological functions including proper eye, face, body wall, limbs and neural tube development. They also suppress a number of genes including MCAM/MUC18, C/EBP alpha and MYC. AP2 beta appears to be required for normal face and limb development and for proper terminal differentiation and function of renal tubular epithelia.