Acts as one of several non-catalytic accessory components of the cytoplasmic dynein 1 complex that are thought to be involved in linking dynein to cargos and to adapter proteins that regulate dynein function. Cytoplasmic dynein 1 acts as a motor for the intracellular retrograde motility of vesicles and organelles along microtubules. May play a role in changing or maintaining the spatial distribution of cytoskeletal structures (By similarity).
Promotes transactivation functions of ESR1 and plays a role in the nuclear localization of ESR1.
Regulates apoptotic activities of BCL2L11 by sequestering it to microtubules. Upon apoptotic stimuli the BCL2L11-DYNLL1 complex dissociates from cytoplasmic dynein and translocates to mitochondria and sequesters BCL2 thus neutralizing its antiapoptotic activity (By similarity).
Binds and inhibits the catalytic activity of neuronal nitric oxide synthase/NOS1.
Subcellular locations: Cytoplasm, Cytoskeleton, Microtubule organizing center, Centrosome, Cytoplasm, Cytoskeleton, Nucleus, Mitochondrion
Upon induction of apoptosis translocates together with BCL2L11 to mitochondria.