LSM5 Human

LSM5, also known as LSM5 Homolog, U6 Small Nuclear RNA Associated, is a protein coding gene that plays a crucial role in RNA metabolism. This gene is part of the Sm-like (LSM) protein family, which is identified in a variety of organisms based on sequence homology with the Sm protein family .

LSM5 contains the Sm sequence motif, which consists of two regions separated by a linker of variable length that folds as a loop . The Sm-like proteins, including LSM5, are thought to form a stable heteromer present in tri-snRNP particles, which are important for pre-mRNA splicing . Specifically, LSM5 is a component of the U4/U6-U5 tri-snRNP complex involved in spliceosome assembly and the precatalytic spliceosome (spliceosome B complex) .

The heptameric LSM2-8 complex, which includes LSM5, binds specifically to the 3’-terminal U-tract of U6 snRNA . This binding is essential for the proper functioning of the spliceosome, a complex responsible for the removal of introns from pre-mRNA . Additionally, LSM5 is involved in mRNA decapping and degradation, further highlighting its role in RNA processing .

LSM5 is associated with several critical pathways, including the processing of capped intron-containing pre-mRNA and deadenylation-dependent mRNA decay . These pathways are vital for the regulation of gene expression and the maintenance of cellular homeostasis.

Mutations or dysregulation of LSM5 have been linked to certain diseases, such as spinal muscular atrophy . Understanding the function and regulation of LSM5 can provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these conditions and potentially lead to the development of targeted therapies.