Involved in the stabilization of microtubules (PubMed:33633135). Probably by controlling microtubules stabilization, plays a role in invasion, microneme secretion and parasite growth in host erythrocytes (PubMed:32493727). Interacts with alpha-tubulin 1 and beta-tubulin; the interaction stabilizes microtubule assembly. Localizes to the parasite surface in subpellicular regions in trophozoites and schizonts (PubMed:33633135). In merozoites, localizes to the apical end of the parasite (PubMed:33633135). Expressed during the parasite blood stage, including in rings, trophozoites, schizonts and free merozoites (at protein level). The doublecortin is involved in the binding to microtubules; however, it is not sufficient by itself and requires the partial p25alpha domain. The partial p25 alpha domain binds to microtubules. Human microRNA candidate miR-197 and to a lesser extent miR150 causes the down-regulation of apicortin and thus may be a possible candidate for nucleotide-based antimalarial treatment. Tamoxifen used to treat breast cancer blocks the interaction between DCX/apicortin and, alpha-tubulin 1 and beta-tubulin resulting in microtubule destabilization.