This gene encodes an adaptor protein that belongs to the bicaudal D family of dynein cargo adaptors. The encoded protein acts as an intracellular cargo transport cofactor that regulates the microtubule-based loading of cargo onto the dynein motor complex. It also controls dynein motor activity and coordination. It has a domain architecture consisting of coiled-coil domains at the N- and C-termini that are highly conserved in other family members. Naturally occurring mutations in this gene are associated with short telomere length and emphysema.