Binds to single and double-stranded DNA and exhibits DNA-dependent ATPase activity. Unwinds duplex DNA (By similarity). Component of the meiotic recombination pathway. Seems to play a role in mediating chromosome homology search, chromosome pairing and synapsis at early stages and probably chromosome crossing-over at later stages in meiosis. Probably is involved in the repair of meiotic double strand breaks (DBSs) and in homologous recombination. Self-associates and may interact with XRCC3 homolog. Highly expressed in mitotic and meiotic tissues, but low levels in differentiated tissues. Belongs to the RecA family. RAD51 subfamily.