3'-5' RNA helicase that plays a key role in the male and female germline by promoting transition from mitotic to meiotic divisions in stem cells (PubMed:26318451, PubMed:29033321, PubMed:29970596). Specifically recognizes and binds N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-containing RNAs, a modification present at internal sites of mRNAs and some non-coding RNAs that plays a role in the efficiency of RNA processing and stability (PubMed:26318451, PubMed:29033321). Essential for ensuring a successful progression of the meiotic program in the germline by regulating the level of m6A-containing RNAs (By similarity). Acts by binding and promoting degradation of m6A-containing mRNAs: the 3'-5' RNA helicase activity is required for this process and RNA degradation may be mediated by XRN1 exoribonuclease (PubMed:29033321). Required for both spermatogenesis and oogenesis (By similarity). ATP + H2O = ADP + H(+) + phosphate Interacts with MEIOC; binds transcripts that regulate the mitotic cell cycle inhibiting progression into metaphase, thereby allowing meiotic prophase to proceed normally (By similarity). Interacts (via ANK repeats) with XRN1 (PubMed:29033321, PubMed:29970596). Interacts with ZCCHC4 (PubMed:31799605). Associates with the small ribosomal subunit (PubMed:29970596). Expressed in testis (PubMed:29087293). Not detected in spermatogonia next to the tubule wall but is strongly expressed in spermatocytes, suggesting that it is up-regulated in germ cells upon entry into meiosis (PubMed:29087293). The YTH domain mediates RNA-binding. It recognizes and binds N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-containing RNAs. Belongs to the DEAD box helicase family. DEAH subfamily.