Functions of Lsm proteins in mRNA degradation and splicing

Recent results have identified a family of Lsm (Like Sm) proteins that are related to the Sm protein family. Seven Lsm proteins form a complex, which interacts with the U6 snRNA and functions in splicing. In addition. a different complex of Lsm proteins interacts with cytoplasmic mRNA and promotes its turnover. These diverse functions of Lsm proteins suggest that they are important modulators of RNA biogenesis and function.