This gene encodes a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor which is expressed in oligodendroglial tumors of the brain.The protein is an essential regulator of ventral neuroectodermal progenitor cell fate.The gene is involved in a chromosomal translocation t (14,21) (q11.2,q22) associated with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.Its chromosomal location is within a region of chromosome 21 which has been suggested to play a role in learning deficits associated with Down syndrome.Tissue specificity: Expressed in the brain, in oligodendrocytes.Strongly expressed in oligodendrogliomas, while expression is weak to moderate in astrocytomas.Expression in glioblastomas highly variable.