Probable RNA helicase required for oocyte and sperm function. Also required to prevent the physiological germline apoptosis mechanism killing essentially all developing oocytes. ATP + H2O = ADP + H(+) + phosphate Interacts with car-1 in a germline ribonucleoprotein complex (PubMed:16221731). Interacts with ifet-1 (PubMed:23264733). Interacts with oma-1, which is a component of a ribonucleoprotein complex, in an RNA-dependent manner (PubMed:25261697). Cytoplasmic when associated with pgl-1. Associates with P granules and this localization is dependent on ifet-1. Expression is restricted to two germline precursors Z2 and Z3 in L1 stage hermaphrodites, and is detectable specifically in the gonad at low levels into the L3 stage. Expression is significantly higher during the early L4 stage. In adults, expression remains gonad-specific and was not apparent in the somatically derived uterus. Expressed in germ granules (P granules); when associated with pgl-1. Belongs to the DEAD box helicase family. DDX6/DHH1 subfamily.