U6 snRNA-associated Sm-like protein LSm3 (LSm3)

U6 snRNA-associated Sm-like protein LSm3 (abbreviated LSm3) is an RNA-binding protein encoded by the *LSM3* gene in humans[1][7]. It belongs to the Sm-like (Lsm) protein family and participates in essential RNA metabolic processes, particularly as part of the U4/U6-U5 tri-snRNP complex, which is vital for assembly and function of the spliceosome in pre-mRNA splicing[4][7]. LSm3 is also a component of complexes involved in mRNA degradation and decapping, often forming heptameric or octameric ring structures that interact with other Lsm proteins and factors such as Pat1 to regulate RNA stability and decay[2][3][6]. Sm-like proteins such as LSm3 contain a characteristic Sm fold and interact specifically with RNA sequences, including the 3′-terminal uridine-rich (U) tracts of U6 snRNA[4][6]. LSm3 is not a recognized therapeutic drug target, receptor, enzyme, or transporter, but serves a fundamental household role in RNA splicing and turnover[1][7]. No approved drugs are known to directly target LSm3, nor are there established mechanisms of action or biomarker roles for this molecule in clinical applications. Dysfunction in the general LSm protein family has been associated with some diseases related to splicing defects but LSm3 itself is not a major disease driver[7].

Other names

LSM3SMX4USS2YLR438CMDS017LSM3 homologU6 small nuclear RNA and mRNA degradation associatedU6 snRNA-associated Sm-like protein LSm3LSM3 homolog, U6 small nuclear RNA associatedLSM3 U6 small nuclear RNA and mRNA degradation associated