This intronless gene was thought to be a transcribed pseudogene of POU class 5 homeobox 1, however, it has been reported that this gene can encode a functional protein. The encoded protein is nearly the same length as and highly similar to the POU class 5 homeobox 1 transcription factor, has been shown to be a weak transcriptional activator and may play a role in carcinogenesis and eye development.