Transcription factor that controls fundamental aspects of growth. Directly activates NPPB transcription in osteogenic cells (PubMed:11751690, PubMed:17881654). Preferentially binds DNA elements with the sequence 5'-TAATNNNATTA-3', possibly as a homodimer (PubMed:11751690). {ECO:0000269|PubMed:11751690, ECO:0000269|PubMed:17881654}. This is the function of SHOX (SHOX homeobox, ENSG00000185960).