LSM5 Homolog (LSM5)

Sm-like proteins were identified in a variety of organisms based on sequence homology with the Sm protein family . Sm-like proteins contain the Sm sequence motif, which consists of 2 regions separated by a linker of variable length that folds as a loop. The Sm-like proteins are thought to form a stable heteromer present in tri-snRNP particles, which are important for pre-mRNA splicing.Disruption of genes encoding Sm-like proteins directly associated with the U6 snRNA (Lsm2-8) generated variable phenotypes. Lsm2, Lsm3, Lsm4, and Lsm8 are essential for vegetative growth. Lsm5, Lsm6, and Lsm7 are not essential for growth; however, their disruptions lead to slow growth especially at elevated temperature. The levels of the U6 snRNA were strongly reduced in the strains harboring the Lsm5, Lsm6, and Lsm7 disruptions.