Part of the core SMN complex at least composed of smn1, yip11/gem2, gem6, gem7 and gem8 (PubMed:33754639). Interacts with gem6; the interaction is direct (PubMed:33754639). Interacts with gem8; the interaction is direct (PubMed:33754639). Inviable cell population. Belongs to the gemin-7 family.