Essential component of the U1 snRNP particle, which recognizes and binds the 5'-splice site of pre-mRNA. Together with other non-snRNP factors, U1 snRNP forms the spliceosomal commitment complex, that targets pre-mRNA to the splicing pathway. U1 snRNP is cotranscriptionally recruited to intron-containing genes. Required for U1 snRNP biogenesis. Component of the 18S U1 snRNP particle, a subcomplex of the spliceosome. Present with 1730 molecules/cell in log phase SD medium.