Plays fundamental roles in nuclear assembly, chromatin organization, gene expression and gonad development. May potently compress chromatin structure and be involved in membrane recruitment and chromatin decondensation during nuclear assembly. Contains 2 non-specific dsDNA-binding sites which may promote DNA cross-bridging (By similarity). Homodimer. Binds non-specifically to double-stranded DNA, and is found as hexamer or dodecamer upon DNA binding. Binds to LEM domain-containing nuclear proteins (By similarity). Interacts with nemp1a and nemp1b. Colocalizes with nemp1a and nemp1b at the nuclear envelope. At the early gastrula stage, expressed mainly in the entire animal hemisphere. During neurulation, its expression becomes restricted to the anterior neuroectoderm. At the tailbud stage, expressed in various anterior regions including the anterior central nervous system (CNS), otic vesicles, and branchial arches. Phosphorylated during S and M phases. Belongs to the BAF family.