U1 snRNP (small nuclear ribonucleoprotein)

U1 snRNP is a small nuclear ribonucleoprotein complex that plays a crucial role in the processing of pre-messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) in cells. Specifically, it helps in the removal of non-coding regions, called introns, from pre-mRNA, facilitating the production of mature messenger RNA (mRNA) that can be translated into proteins. U1 snRNP is composed of a small RNA molecule and proteins, which work together to recognize and bind to specific sequences at the beginning of introns, ensuring accurate splicing. This process is vital for gene expression and the proper functioning of biological systems.