Binds to DNA and alters its conformation. May be involved in global regulation of gene expression. Binds specifically and non-specifically to DNA, preferentially to the 4 bp broken palindrome 5'-GTnAC-3'. Affects expression of a wide variety of genes, encoding both structural and metabolic proteins. Homodimer. Can form tetramers and octamers in solution. Transcribed at high levels in rapidly growing cells, but is indetectable in stationary-phase cells. Belongs to the YbaB/EbfC family.