Integration host factor

UniProtKB accession:  Q9KXR9

Grouped By:  Matching UniProtKB accession

UniProtKB description:  A nucleoid-associated protein (NAP) that probably plays a role in chromosome compactation. Contributes to development and secondary metabolism, but is dispensable for growth and viability (PubMed:22038127, PubMed:23427309). Binds to the promoter region of a number of genes (including itself); multiple molecules of the protein bind to the DNA simultaneously, deletion alters the expression of about 30 genes (both up- and down-regulation occurs). Plays a role in controlling viability (PubMed:22038127). Binds dsDNA without any obvious sequence specificity, in a concentration and length-dependent manner. Promotes supercoiling in a topoisomerase-dependent manner (counteracts TopA plasmid relaxation). Binds DNA as a monomer, contacting 8 base pairs via the phosphate backbone; each monomer can bind 2 DNA duplexes, allowing a bridging function (PubMed:23427309). Alters DNA topology, constraining negative supercoils, possibly by DNA twist. Longer dsDNA binds more than one sIHF subunit (PubMed:31376411).