Hnf4a  is a nuclear transcription factor which binds DNA as a homodimer. Hnf4a controls the expression of several genes, including hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 alpha, a transcription factor which regulates the expression of several hepatic genes. This gene may play a role in development of the liver, kidney, and intestines. Hnf4α plus Foxa1, Foxa2 or Foxa3 can convert mouse embryonic and adult fibroblasts into cells that closely resemble hepatocytes in vitro.