Involved in the recruitment of key centrosomal proteins to the centrosome. Provides centrosomal microtubule-nucleation activity on the gamma-tubulin ring complexes (gamma-TuRCs) and has critical roles in forming a focused bipolar spindle, which is needed for proper tension generation between sister chromatids. Required for localization of KIZ, AKAP9 and gamma-tubulin ring complexes (gamma-TuRCs) (PubMed:19536135). Involved in centriole duplication. Required for CDK5RAP22, CEP152, WDR62 and CEP63 centrosomal localization and promotes the centrosomal localization of CDK2 (PubMed:26297806). Interacts with KIZ, PCM1 and CDK5RAP2. Localizes to the centrosome and centrosome-surrounding particles throughout the cell cycle. These particles disappear after microtubules are depolymerized using nocodazole, suggesting that CEP72-associating particles localize in a microtubule- dependent manner. Belongs to the CEP72 family.