DNA helicase that acts as a tension sensor that associates with catenated DNA which is stretched under tension until it is resolved during anaphase (, ). Functions as ATP-dependent DNA translocase (, ). Can promote Holliday junction branch migration (in vitro) .
Subcellular locations: Chromosome, Centromere, Chromosome, Centromere, Kinetochore, Chromosome
Localizes to kinetochores, inner centromeres and thin threads connecting separating chromosomes even during anaphase. In prometaphase cells, it mostly concentrates in between kinetochores. In metaphase, it localizes to numerous thin threads that stretch between sister kinetochores of the aligned chromosomes and are composed of catenated centromeric DNA. Evolution from inner centromeres to thin threads takes place in response to tension. Resolution of thin threads requires topoisomerase 2-alpha (TOP2A) after anaphase onset.