Component of the nexin-dynein regulatory complex (N-DRC) a key regulator of ciliary/flagellar motility which maintains the alignment and integrity of the distal axoneme and regulates microtubule sliding in motile axonemes. Plays a critical role in the assembly of N-DRC and also stabilizes the assembly of multiple inner dynein arms and radial spokes. Coassembles with DRC2 to form a central scaffold needed for assembly of the N-DRC and its attachment to the outer doublet microtubules (PubMed:23427265, PubMed:25411337, PubMed:29167384, PubMed:23354437). Component of the nexin-dynein regulatory complex (N-DRC), composed of at least DRC1, DRC2, DRC3, DRC4, DRC5, DRC6, DRC7, DRC8, DRC9, DRC10 and DRC11 (PubMed:23427265, PubMed:25411337, PubMed:29167384). Interacts with DRC4 and DRC5 (PubMed:23427265). Defects in DRC1 give the pf3 phenotype characterized by reduced swimming speed and abnormal ciliary waveform characterized by reduced shear amplitude. Severe defects in assembly of the N-DRC and several inner-arm structures seen. Belongs to the DRC1 family.