A multi-processor includes a shared memory that stores a search key data set including multiple search keys, a processor, a Direct Memory Access (DMA) controller, and an Interlaken Look-Aside (ILA) interface circuit. The processor generates a descriptor that is sent to the DMA controller causing the DMA controller to read the search key data set. The DMA controller selects a single search key from the set and generates a lookup command message that is communicated to the ILA interface circuit. The ILA interface circuit generates an ILA packet that includes the single search key and sends the ILA packet to an external transactional memory device that generates a result data value. The result data value is communicated back to the DMA controller via the ILA interface circuit. The DMA controller stores the result data value in the shared memory and notifies the processor that the DMA process has completed.