Encodes ERF53, a drought-induced transcription factor. Belongs to the AP2/ERF superfamily, and has a highly conserved AP2 domain. Regulates drought-responsive gene expressions by binding to the GCC box and/or dehydration-responsive element (DRE) in the promoter of downstream genes. Overexpression of AtERF53 driven by the CaMV35S promoter resulted in an unstable drought-tolerant phenotype in T2 transgenic plants. Involved in heat shock response.