This gene encodes a member of the like-Sm family of proteins. The encoded protein consists of a closed barrel shape, made up of five anti-parallel beta strands and an alpha helix. This protein partners with six paralogs to form a heteroheptameric ring which transiently binds U6 small nuclear RNAs and is involved in the general maturation of RNA in the nucleus. [provided by RefSeq, Jan 2010] see less This gene encodes a member of the like-Sm family of proteins. The encoded protein consists of a closed barrel shape, made up of five anti-parallel beta strands and an alpha helix. This protein partners with six paralogs to form a heteroheptameric ring which transiently binds U6 small nuclear RNAs and is involved in the general maturation of RNA in the nucleus. [provided by RefSeq, Jan 2010]