DNA-dependent metalloendopeptidase that mediates the proteolytic cleavage of covalent DNA-protein cross-links (DPCs) during DNA synthesis, thereby playing a key role in maintaining genomic integrity (PubMed:27871365). DPCs are highly toxic DNA lesions that interfere with essential chromatin transactions, such as replication and transcription, and which are induced by reactive agents, such as UV light or formaldehyde (PubMed:27871365). Associates with the DNA replication machinery and specifically removes DPCs during DNA synthesis (PubMed:27871365). Regulator of UV-induced DNA damage response: required to protect genome stability during DNA replication, possibly via recruitment of vcp/p97 (cdc-48.1 or cdc-48.2) recruitment (PubMed:23042605). Interacts with vcp/p97 (cdc-48.1 or cdc-48.2). Localizes to nuclear foci following UV treatment. In normal conditions, no obvious developmental or behavioral defects are observed, except that but the brood size is smaller. Upon exposure of L1 larvae to hydroxyurea, replication stress sensitivity is observed, resulting in increased sterility. Belongs to the Spartan family.