Binds DNA and functions as a transcriptional regulator . Displays histone methyltransferase activity and monomethylates 'Lys-9' of histone H3 (H3K9me1) in vitro (By similarity). Probably catalyzes the monomethylation of free histone H3 in the cytoplasm which is then transported to the nucleus and incorporated into nucleosomes where SUV39H methyltransferases use it as a substrate to catalyze histone H3 'Lys-9' trimethylation (By similarity). Likely to be one of the primary histone methyltransferases along with MECOM/PRDM3 that direct cytoplasmic H3K9me1 methylation (By similarity). Functions in the differentiation of brown adipose tissue (BAT) which is specialized in dissipating chemical energy in the form of heat in response to cold or excess feeding while white adipose tissue (WAT) is specialized in the storage of excess energy and the control of systemic metabolism (By similarity). Together with CEBPB, regulates the differentiation of myoblastic precursors into brown adipose cells (By similarity). Functions as a repressor of TGF-beta signaling .
Binds DNA and functions as a transcriptional regulator . Functions as a repressor of TGF-beta signaling . May regulate granulocyte differentiation .
Subcellular locations: Nucleus, Cytoplasm
Expressed in uterus and kidney. Expressed in both cardiomyocytes and interstitial cells.