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'-TTGTCCACA-3'. DnaA binds to ATP and to acidic phospholipids. Can form a dimer when binding to a single dnaA box. Belongs to the DnaA family.