This gene encodes a member of the interferon regulatory transcription factor (IRF) family. The encoded protein is found in an inactive cytoplasmic form that upon serine/threonine phosphorylation forms a complex with CREBBP. This complex translocates to the nucleus and activates the transcription of interferons alpha and beta, as well as other interferon-induced genes. The protein plays an important role in the innate immune response against DNA and RNA viruses. Mutations in this gene are associated with Encephalopathy, acute, infection-induced, herpes-specific, 7.