This gene encodes a member of the early B-cell factor (EBF) family of DNA binding transcription factors. EBF proteins are involved in B-cell differentiation, bone development and neurogenesis, and may also function as tumor suppressors. The encoded protein inhibits cell survival through the regulation of genes involved in cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and aberrant methylation or deletion of this gene may play a role in multiple malignancies including glioblastoma multiforme and gastric carcinoma.