Plays an important role in the initiation and regulation of chromosomal replication. Binds to the origin of replication; it binds specifically double-stranded DNA at a 9 bp consensus (dnaA box): 5'-TTATC[CA]A[CA]A-3'. DnaA binds to ATP and to acidic phospholipids. DnaA can inhibit its own gene expression as well as that of other genes. Some 20 DnaA protein molecules bind their sites in oriC. Belongs to the DnaA family.