Atf4 - activating transcription factor 4

Enables several functions, including DNA-binding transcription activator activity, RNA polymerase II-specific; cAMP response element binding protein binding activity; and promoter-specific chromatin binding activity. Contributes to DNA-binding transcription factor activity, RNA polymerase II-specific and RNA polymerase II cis-regulatory region sequence-specific DNA binding activity. Involved in several processes, including PERK-mediated unfolded protein response; animal organ development; and regulation of gene expression. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including gluconeogenesis; positive regulation of sodium-dependent phosphate transport; and positive regulation of vascular associated smooth muscle cell apoptotic process. Located in cytoplasm and nucleus. Part of ATF1-ATF4 transcription factor complex and ATF4-CREB1 transcription factor complex. Is expressed in several structures, including central nervous system; embryo ectoderm; eye; genitourinary system; and long bone. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in prostate carcinoma. Orthologous to human ATF4 (activating transcription factor 4). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]