The function of DNAH17 (dynein axonemal heavy chain 17, ENSG00000187775) is as follows. Force generating protein component of the outer dynein arms (ODAs) in the sperm flagellum (By similarity). Produces force towards the minus ends of microtubules (By similarity). Key component of dynein, a family of motor proteins essential for movement along microtubules (By similarity). Dynein has ATPase activity; the force- producing power stroke is thought to occur on release of ADP (By similarity). Required for structural and functional integrity of cilia (By similarity). Plays a major role in sperm motility, implicated in sperm flagellar assembly and beating (PubMed:31178125). {ECO:0000250|UniProtKB:I7M9J2, ECO:0000250|UniProtKB:Q9NYC9, ECO:0000269|PubMed:31178125, ECO:0000305|PubMed:31178125}.