Transcription factor that acts as a master regulator of lysosomal biogenesis, autophagy, lysosomal exocytosis, lipid catabolism, energy metabolism and immune response. Specifically recognizes and binds E-box sequences (5'-CANNTG-3'); efficient DNA-binding requires dimerization with itself or with another MiT/TFE family member such as TFE3 or MITF. Involved in the cellular response to amino acid availability by acting downstream of MTOR: in the presence of nutrients, TFEB phosphorylation by MTOR promotes its cytosolic retention and subsequent inactivation.