Required to maintain individual mitotic chromosomes dispersed in the cytoplasm following nuclear envelope disassembly(PubMed:27362226). Associates with the surface of the mitotic chromosome, the peri chromosomal layer, and covers a substantial fraction of the chromosome surface (PubMed:27362226).

Cellular Localization

Chromosome. Nucleus. Nucleus, nucleolus Note=Associates with the surface of the mitotic chromosome, the peri chromosomal layer, and covers a substantial fraction of the mitotic chromosome surface (PubMed:27362226). Associates with satellite DNA in G1 phase (PubMed:9510506). Binds tightly to chromatin in interphase, chromatin-binding decreases in mitosis when it associates with the surface of the condensed chromosomes (PubMed:15896774, PubMed:22002106). Predominantly localized in the G1 phase in the peri nucleolar region, in the later phases it is also detected throughout the nuclear interior, being predominantly localized in the nuclear matrix (PubMed:22002106).

Function

Required to maintain individual mitotic chromosomes dispersed in the cytoplasm following nuclear envelope disassembly . Associates with the surface of the mitotic chromosome, the per chromosomal layer, and covers a substantial fraction of the chromosome surface . Prevents chromosomes from collapsing into a single chromatin mass by forming a steric and electrostatic charge barrier: the protein has a high net electrical charge and acts as a surfactant, dispersing chromosomes and enabling independent chromosome motility . Binds DNA, with a preference for supercoiled DNA and AT-rich DNA . Does not contribute to the internal structure of mitotic chromosomes (By similarity). May play a role in chromatin organization It is however unclear whether it plays a direct role in chromatin organization or whether it is an indirect consequence of its function in maintaining mitotic chromosomes dispersed (Probable).