ZIC3 plays a vital role in the regulation of gene expression during early development. It is involved in the formation of the neural structures, playing a pivotal role in neurogenesis. Additionally, ZIC3 is essential for the establishment of left-right asymmetry, which is critical for the proper positioning and orientation of organs in the body. Mutations in the ZIC3 gene can lead to a variety of developmental disorders, including heterotaxy and congenital heart defects.