This gene encodes a member of the interferon regulatory transcription factor (IRF) family. Family members share a highly-conserved N-terminal helix-turn-helix DNA-binding domain and a less conserved C-terminal protein-binding domain. The encoded protein may be a transcriptional activator. Mutations in this gene can cause van der Woude syndrome and popliteal pterygium syndrome. Mutations in this gene are also associated with non-syndromic orofacial cleft type 6. Alternate splicing results in multiple transcript variants.