GATA-type transcription repressor that regulates iron- acquisition genes through specific binding the GATA sequence element 5'-ATCWGATAA-3' of target promoters (PubMed:18721228). Iron acquisition regulation is critical for survival under both iron-limiting conditions (to acquire essential iron) and iron-replete conditions (to limit iron toxicity) (PubMed:18721228). SreA targets include genes encoding a number of key iron-regulated factors such as those involved in siderophore biosynthesis (PubMed:18721228). Expression is repressed by the zinc cluster transcription factor acuM in order to stimulate expression of genes involved in both reductive iron assimilation and siderophore-mediated iron uptake (PubMed:21062375). The conserved cystein-rich region (CRR) localized between the zinc fingers is also involved in DNA-binding and transcription repressor activity (By similarity). During iron-replete conditions, partially derepresses synthesis of triacetylfusarinine C (TAFC) and uptake of iron resulting in increased cellular accumulation of both iron and ferricrocin (FC) (PubMed:18721228). Increases sensitivity to iron and oxidative stress (PubMed:18721228).