Transcription regulator that probably binds to the GCC-box pathogenesis-related promoter element. Binds also to the S-box (5'-CACTTCCA-3') photosynthesis-associated nuclear genes-related (PhANGs-related) promoter element, and thus acts as a transcription inhibitor. Involved in the regulation of gene expression by stress factors and by components of stress signal transduction pathways. May have a function in the deetiolation process. Confers sensitivity to abscisic acid (ABA), and regulates the ABA signaling pathway during seed germination, upon nitrate-mediated lateral root inhibition, in hexokinase-dependent sugar responses (including feed-back regulation of photosynthesis and mobilization of storage lipid during germination), and in response to osmotic stress mediated by NaCl, KCl or mannitol. Plays a role in sucrose sensing or signaling, especially at low fluence far red light. Also involved in plant response to glucose treatment, especially at low concentration and in young seedlings. Required for the trehalose-mediated root inhibition and starch accumulation in cotyledons, probably by inhibiting starch breakdown. However, seems to not be involved in sugar-mediated senescence. Required for the ABA-dependent beta-amino-butyric acid (BABA) signaling pathway. BABA primes ABA synthesis and promotes resistance to drought and salt, and leads to a prime callose accumulation that confers resistance against necrotrophic pathogens such as A.brassicicola and P.cucumerina. Seems to be involved in resistance to S.sclerotiorum probably by regulating the ABA-mediated stomatal closure apparently by antagonistic interaction with oxalate. Negative regulator of low water potential-induced Pro accumulation whose effect is decreased by high levels of sugar. Interacts with SPK1, SCAR2 and SCAR3 (PubMed:17267444). Binds to MED18 to regulate abscisic acid responses; recruits MED18 to ABI5 promoter in the presence of abscisic acid (ABA) (PubMed:24451981). In seeds, mostly in embryo, and seedlings, especially in vascular tissues. Confined to the hypocotyl, cotyledons, the root cap, and the root quiescent center. Levels increase in embryos from globular stage onward during seed maturation. In seedlings, levels in cotyledons and hypocotyls decrease progressively to disappear 3 days after germination, except after glucose treatment that makes levels constant. Only in young seedlings by ABA, imbibition, glucose, 2-deoxy-glucose (2DG), trehalose, and osmotic stress. 'Salobreno' means 'salty land' in Spanish. Plants lacking ABI4 are salt tolerant. Belongs to the AP2/ERF transcription factor family. ERF subfamily. Extended C-terminus.