Key microtubule-organizing protein that specifically binds the minus-end of non-centrosomal microtubules and regulates their dynamics and organization. Specifically recognizes growing microtubule minus-ends and stabilizes microtubules. Acts on free microtubule minus-ends that are not capped by microtubule-nucleating proteins or other factors and protects microtubule minus-ends from depolymerization. In contrast to camsap2 and camsap3, tracks along the growing tips of minus-end microtubules without significantly affecting the polymerization rate: binds at the very tip of the microtubules minus-end and acts as a minus-end tracking protein (-TIP) that dissociates from microtubules after allowing tubulin incorporation. Through interaction with spectrin may regulate neurite outgrowth. Associates with the minus-end of microtubules. In contrast to camsap2 and camsap3, does not form stretches of decorated microtubule minus-ends. The CKK domain binds microtubules. Belongs to the CAMSAP1 family.