Transcription factor that activates the expression of the EIF2S1 (EIF2-alpha) gene. Links the transcriptional modulation of key metabolic genes to cellular growth and development. Implicated in the control of nuclear genes required for respiration, heme biosynthesis, and mitochondrial DNA transcription and replication (By similarity). Homodimer. Binds DNA as a dimer. Interacts with PPRC1 (By similarity). Widely expressed in embryonic, fetal, and adult tissues. Phosphorylation enhances DNA binding. Belongs to the NRF1/Ewg family.