Automated description from the Alliance of Genome Resources (Release 7.1.0)
Enables several functions, including E-box binding activity; histone deacetylase binding activity; and protein homodimerization activity. Involved in several processes, including heart valve development; regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II; and skeletal system morphogenesis. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including chordate embryonic development; limb morphogenesis; and negative regulation of cytokine production. Located in nucleus. Is expressed in several structures, including alimentary system; central nervous system; embryo mesenchyme; extraembryonic component; and genitourinary system. Used to study Saethre-Chotzen syndrome. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in Sweeney-Cox syndrome; breast cancer (multiple); and synostosis (multiple). Orthologous to human TWIST1 (twist family bHLH transcription factor 1).