Unique chromatin-associating protein that contributes to the organism's exceptional tolerance to harsh environmental stresses (PubMed:27649274, PubMed:31571581). Binds with a higher affinity to nucleosomes than to free DNA (PubMed:31571581). Protects chromatin from damage caused by hydroxyl radical-mediated cleavage induced by X-rays or treatment with hydrogen peroxide (PubMed:27649274, PubMed:31571581). Suppresses X-ray-induced DNA damage that includes single-strand breaks (SSBs) as well as more hazardous double-strand breaks (DSBs), and improves radiotolerance (PubMed:27649274). Shields also DNA against reactive oxygen species (ROS) (PubMed:27649274). A walk on the rough side - Issue 188 of February 2017