This gene encodes a paired-like homeodomain transcription factor in the developing pituitary gland. Expression occurs prior to and is required for expression of pou domain transcription factor 1, which is responsible for pituitary development and hormone expression. Mutations in this gene have been associated with combined pituitary hormone deficiency-2 as well as deficiencies in luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, growth hormone, prolactin, and thyroid-stimulating hormone. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2011].