Catalyzes a reversible aldol reaction between acetaldehyde and D-glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate to generate 2-deoxy-D-ribose 5-phosphate. Could be involved in pentose biosynthesis. 2-deoxy-D-ribose 5-phosphate = acetaldehyde + D-glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate Activated by citrate. Inhibited by NaBH(4). Activity is independent of divalent metal cations. kcat is 116 sec(-1) (at 95 degrees Celsius). Optimum pH is 4.0. Optimum temperature is 95 degrees Celsius. Homodimer. Belongs to the DeoC/FbaB aldolase family. DeoC type 1 subfamily.