Catalytic subunit of a complex which severs microtubules in an ATP-dependent manner. Microtubule severing may promote rapid reorganization of cellular microtubule arrays and the release of microtubules from the centrosome following nucleation. Microtubule release from the mitotic spindle poles may allow depolymerization of the microtubule end proximal to the spindle pole, leading to poleward microtubule flux and poleward motion of chromosome. Microtubule release within the cell body of neurons may be required for their transport into neuronal processes by microtubule-dependent motor proteins. This transport is required for axonal growth.
Subcellular locations: Cytoplasm, Midbody, Cytoplasm, Cytoskeleton, Microtubule organizing center, Centrosome, Cytoplasm, Cytoskeleton, Spindle pole, Cytoplasm, Cytoskeleton, Spindle
Predominantly cytoplasmic . Localized diffusely in the cytoplasm during the interphase . During metaphase is localized throughout the cell and more widely dispersed than the microtubules. In anaphase and telophase is localized at the midbody region . Also localized to the interphase centrosome and the mitotic spindle poles (By similarity). Enhanced recruitment to the mitotic spindle poles requires microtubules and interaction with KATNB1 . Localizes within the cytoplasm, partially overlapping with microtubules, in interphase and to the mitotic spindle and spindle poles during mitosis .