Component of the ribosomal small subunit processome for the biogenesis of ribosomes, functions in pre-ribosomal RNA (pre-rRNA) processing (By similarity). Essential for embryonic development in part through the regulation of p53 pathway. Controls the expansion growth of digestive organs and liver (By similarity). Also involved in the sympathetic neuronal development (By similarity). Mediates, with CAPN3, the proteasome-independent degradation of p53/TP53 (By similarity). Interacts with CAPN3; the interaction is required for CAPN3 translocation to the nucleolus. Phosphorylated. Phosphorylation is required to promote p53/TP53 degradation in the nucleolus which promotes cell cycle progression and liver development. Belongs to the UTP25 family.