DNA-dependent ATPase and ATP-dependent DNA helicase that participates in various functions in genomic stability, including DNA replication, DNA repair and heterochromatin organization as well as in ribosomal RNA synthesis. Plays a role in DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair at the DNA replication fork during DNA replication recovery from DNA damage. Plays a role in the regulation of sister chromatid cohesion and mitotic chromosome segregation. Stimulates 5'-single-stranded DNA flap endonuclease activity of FEN1 in an ATP- and helicase-independent manner. Also plays a role in heterochromatin organization (By similarity). Involved in rRNA transcription activation through binding to active hypomethylated rDNA gene loci by recruiting UBTF and the RNA polymerase Pol I transcriptional machinery (PubMed:26089203). Plays a role in embryonic development (PubMed:26089203). Associates with chromatin at DNA replication fork regions. Binds to single- and double-stranded DNAs (By similarity). ATP + H2O = ADP + H(+) + phosphate Binds 1 [4Fe-4S] cluster. Morpholino knockdown of the protein leads to abnormal craniofacial and vertebrate development with shortened and twisted torsos, smaller eyes and low mouth positions at 3 days post-fertilization (dpf). Belongs to the DEAD box helicase family. DEAH subfamily. DDX11/CHL1 sub-subfamily.