Serine/threonine-protein kinase involved in transcription regulation, apoptosis and steroidogenic gene expression. Phosphorylates JUN and RUNX2. Seems to negatively regulate apoptosis by promoting FADD phosphorylation. Enhances androgen receptor-mediated transcription. May act as a transcriptional corepressor for NK homeodomain transcription factors. The phosphorylation of NR5A1 activates SF1 leading to increased steroidogenic gene expression upon cAMP signaling pathway stimulation. In osteoblasts, supports transcription activation: phosphorylates RUNX2 that synergizes with SPEN/MINT to enhance FGFR2-mediated activation of the osteocalcin FGF- responsive element (OCFRE).
