Involved in mitotic spindle regulation and coordination of mitotic processes. The function in regulating microtubule dynamics at spindle poles including spindle orientation, astral microtubule density and poleward microtubule flux seem to depend on its association with the katanin complex formed by KATNA1 and KATNB1. Enhances the microtubule lattice severing activity of KATNA1 by recruiting the katanin complex to microtubules. Can block microtubule minus-end growth and reversely this function can be enhanced by the katanin complex (PubMed:28436967). May have a preferential role in regulating neurogenesis. Interacts with KATNA1 and KATNB1; katanin complex formation KATNA1:KATNB1 is required for the association. Localizes to spindle poles during mitosis. Associates with microtubule minus ends (PubMed:28436967). The nuclear-cytoplasmic distribution could be regulated by the availability of calmodulin. Expressed in fetal brain, peripheral nervous system, liver and spleen. In the adult, expressed exclusively in testis, ovary and spleen. Expressed during cerebral cortical neurogenesis, specifically in the cerebral cortical ventricular zone at 14.5 dpc and 16.5 dpc. Expression is greatly reduced by the day of birth (P0), when neurogenesis in the cortical ventricular zone is completed and gliogenesis is increased. Expression is limited to rare scattered cells in the neocortex by postnatal day 9 (P9).