The function of ENSG00000164002 (EXO5, exonuclease 5) is as follows. Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) bidirectional exonuclease involved in DNA repair. Probably involved in DNA repair following ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and interstrand cross-links (ICLs) damage. Has both 5'-3' and 3'-5' exonuclease activities with a strong preference for 5'-ends. Acts as a sliding exonuclease that loads at ssDNA ends and then slides along the ssDNA prior to cutting; however the sliding and the 3'-5' exonuclease activities are abolished upon binding to the replication protein A (RPA) complex that enforces 5'- directionality activity. {ECO:0000269|PubMed:23095756, ECO:0000269|PubMed:31563844}.