Enables RNA polymerase II transcription regulatory region sequence-specific DNA binding activity. Involved in mononuclear cell differentiation; regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II; and regulation of type I interferon production. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including defense response to protozoan; positive regulation of macromolecule biosynthetic process; and response to bacterium. Located in nucleus. Is expressed in several structures, including central nervous system; genitourinary system; hemolymphoid system; intestine; and lens. Used to study familial chronic myelocytic leukemia-like syndrome. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in Behcet's disease; immunodeficiency 32A; immunodeficiency 32B; multiple myeloma; and systemic lupus erythematosus. Orthologous to human IRF8 (interferon regulatory factor 8).
MGI Description
PHENOTYPE: Homozygotes for a targeted null mutation exhibit increased incidence of viral infections, shortened life span, deregulated hematopoiesis, and hematological neoplasias. Heterozygotes show similar, but milder, phenotypes. [provided by MGI curators]