DNA helicase that possesses intrinsic ATP-dependent nucleosome-remodeling activity and is both required for DNA repair and heterochromatin organization. Promotes DNA end resection of double-strand breaks (DSBs) following DNA damage: probably acts by weakening histone DNA interactions in nucleosomes flanking DSBs. Required for the restoration of heterochromatin organization after replication. Acts at replication sites to facilitate the maintenance of heterochromatin by directing H3 and H4 histones deacetylation, H3 'Lys-9' trimethylation (H3K9me3) and restoration of silencing.
Subcellular locations: Nucleus, Chromosome
Colocalizes with PCNA at replication forks during S phase. Recruited to double-strand breaks (DSBs) sites of DNA damage.
Isoform 1 is expressed ubiquitously. Isoform 3 is expressed mainly in skin and esophagus. Expressed in fibroblasts and keratinocytes (at protein level) .