Dynactin subunit 1 (DCTN1)

Plays a crucial role in dynein-mediated retrograde transport of vesicles and organelles along microtubules by recruitment and tethering dynein to microtubules. Binds to both dynein and microtubules providing a link between specific cargos, microtubules and dynein.

Critical for targeting dynein to microtubule plus ends, recruitment dynein to membranous cargos and enhancing dynein processivity (the ability to move along a microtubule for a long distance without falling off the trail ). Can also act as a brake to slow the dynein motor during motility along the microtubule (PubMed:25185702).