Transcription factor that is involved in embryonic development, establishment of tissue-specific gene expression and regulation of gene expression in differentiated tissues. Is thought to act as a 'pioneer' factor opening the compacted chromatin for other proteins through interactions with nucleosomal core histones and thereby replacing linker histones at target enhancer and/or promoter sites. Binds DNA with the consensus sequence 5'-[AC]A[AT]T[AG]TT[GT][AG][CT]T[CT]-3' (By similarity). In embryonic development is required for notochord formation. Involved in the development of multiple endoderm-derived organ systems such as the liver, pancreas and lungs; FOXA1 and FOXA2 seem to have at least in part redundant roles. Originally discribed as a transcription activator for a number of liver genes such as AFP, albumin, tyrosine aminotransferase, PEPCK, etc. Interacts with the cis-acting regulatory regions of these genes. Involved in glucose homeostasis; regulates the expression of genes important for glucose sensing in pancreatic beta-cells and glucose homeostasis. Involved in regulation of fat metabolism. Binds to fibrinogen beta promoter and is involved in IL6-induced fibrinogen beta transcriptional activation.

Contains 1 fork-head DNA-binding domain.

Phosphorylation on Thr-156 abolishes binding to target promoters and subsequent transcription activation upon insulin stimulation.

Nucleus. Cytoplasm. Shuttles between the nucleus and cytoplasm in a CRM1-dependent manner and in response to insulin signaling via AKT1 is exported from the nucleus.