This gene encodes an ATP-dependent DNA helicase that functions in nucleotide excision repair. The encoded protein is a subunit of basal transcription factor 2 (TFIIH) and, therefore, also functions in class II transcription. Mutations in this gene are associated with Xeroderma pigmentosum B, Cockayne's syndrome, and trichothiodystrophy. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. [provided by RefSeq, Dec 2014].