This protein specifically binds to the DNA sequence 5'-GGGACTTTCC-3' which is found in the enhancer elements of numerous viral promoters such as those of SV40, CMV, or HIV-1. In addition, related sequences are found in the enhancer elements of a number of cellular promoters, including those of the class I MHC, interleukin-2 receptor, and interferon-beta genes. It may act in T-cell activation. Involved in activating HIV-1 gene expression. Isoform 2 and isoform 3 also bind to the IPCS (IRF1 and p53 common sequence) DNA sequence in the promoter region of interferon regulatory factor 1 and p53 genes and are involved in transcription regulation of these genes. Isoform 2 does not activate HIV-1 gene expression. Isoform 2 and isoform 3 may be involved in apoptosis. Interacts with UTP4. By mitogens and phorbol ester. Contains two sets of 2 zinc-fingers, which are widely separated and recognize the same DNA sequence. There is a fifth zinc-finger in-between.