Description
Key microtubule-organizing protein that specifically binds the minus-end of non-centrosomal microtubules and regulates their dynamics and organization (PubMed: 23169647, PubMed: 24486153, PubMed: 24706919). Specifically recognizes growing microtubule minus-ends and autonomously decorates and stabilizes microtubule lattice formed by microtubule minus-end polymerization (PubMed: 24486153, PubMed: 24706919). Acts on free microtubule minus-ends that are not capped by microtubule-nucleating proteins or other factors and protects microtubule minus-ends from depolymerization (PubMed: 24486153, PubMed: 24706919). In addition, it also reduces the velocity of microtubule polymerization (PubMed: 24486153, PubMed: 24706919). Through the microtubule cytoskeleton, also regulates the organization of cellular organelles including the Golgi and the early endosomes (PubMed: 27666745). Essential for the tethering, but not for nucleation of non-centrosomal microtubules at the Golgi: together with Golgi-associated proteins AKAP9 and PDE4DIP, required to tether non-centrosomal minus-end microtubules to the Golgi, an important step for polarized cell movement (PubMed: 27666745). Also acts as a regulator of neuronal polarity and development: localizes to non-centrosomal microtubule minus-ends in neurons and stabilizes non-centrosomal microtubules, which is required for neuronal polarity, axon specification and dendritic branch formation (PubMed: 24908486). Through the microtubule cytoskeleton, regulates the autophagosome transport (PubMed: 28726242)