This gene encodes subunit 1 of the
splicing factor 3b protein complex. Splicing factor 3b, together with splicing factor 3a and
U2 spliceosomal RNA, forms the U2 small nuclear ribonucleoproteins complex (U2 snRNP). The splicing factor 3b/3a complex binds
pre-mRNA upstream of the
intron's branch site in a sequence independent manner and may anchor the U2 snRNP to the pre-mRNA. Splicing factor 3b is also a component of the
minor U12-type spliceosome. The
carboxy-terminal two-thirds of subunit 1 have 22 non-identical, tandem
HEAT repeats that form rod-like, helical structures. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms. == Interactions ==