Component of the cytosolic iron-sulfur (Fe/S) protein assembly (CIA) machinery. Required for maturation of extramitochondrial Fe-S proteins. The NUBP1-NUBP2 heterotetramer forms a Fe-S scaffold complex, mediating the de novo assembly of an Fe-S cluster and its transfer to target apoproteins (By similarity). Implicated in the regulation of centrosome duplication (PubMed:16638812, PubMed:23807208). Negatively regulates cilium formation and structure (PubMed:23807208). Binds 4 [4Fe-4S] clusters per heterotetramer. Contains two stable clusters in the N-termini of NUBP1 and two labile, bridging clusters between subunits of the NUBP1-NUBP2 heterotetramer. Heterotetramer of 2 NUBP1 and 2 NUBP2 chains (PubMed:16638812). Interacts with KIFC1 (PubMed:16638812). Interacts with NUBP2 (PubMed:16638812). Interacts with the BBS/CCT complex subunit CCT1 (PubMed:23807208). Enriched in centrioles of microtubule asters during prophase, prometaphase and telophase stages of mitosis. Localized at centrioles and in the nucleus at interphase. Colocalizes with NUBP2 at prometaphase. Specifically localizes to the axenome of motile cilia as opposed to primary non-motile cilia. Localization is independent of NUBP2 and KIFC1. Expressed in trachea epithelial cells, and kidney inner medullary collecting duct cells. High and constant expression in cycling cells. Down-regulated upon cell cycle exit and quiescence. NIH3T3 cells expressing reduced levels of Nubp1 show an increase in number of centrosomes per cell and an increase in the fraction of multinucleated cells. Belongs to the Mrp/NBP35 ATP-binding proteins family. NUBP1/NBP35 subfamily.