U6 small nuclear RNA-associated Sm-like protein LSm2 (LSM2)

U6 small nuclear RNA-associated Sm-like protein LSm2 (LSM2) is a highly conserved RNA-binding protein and an essential subunit of multiple Lsm complexes that play central roles in eukaryotic RNA metabolism[1][3][5]. In the nucleus, LSM2 assembles into the Lsm2–8 heptameric complex, critical for the stabilization and biogenesis of U6 small nuclear RNA and the formation of functional spliceosomal U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP complexes, which mediate pre-mRNA splicing and ribosomal subunit maturation[1][5]. In the cytoplasm, LSM2 is also a subunit of the Lsm1–7 complex, which participates in mRNA decapping and degradation within processing bodies (P-bodies) regulating mRNA stability and turnover[1][2][6]. LSM2 interacts with several other Lsm proteins and DEAD-box helicases, integrating functions across spliceosomal assembly and mRNA decay pathways[1][3][5]. While not considered a therapeutic target, its expression correlates with cancer progression and poor prognosis in skin cutaneous melanoma, indicating possible disease relevance[4][5].

Other names

C6orf28G7BG7bYBL026WProtein G7bSmall nuclear ribonuclear protein D homologsnRNP core Sm-like protein Sm-x5snRNPLSM2 homolog, U6 small nuclear RNA associated

Not applicable; LSM2 is not a drug target, and no drugs are known to directly target this protein