Splicing factors are proteins that play a crucial role in the process of RNA splicing, which is essential for the maturation of pre-mRNA into mature mRNA. They help remove non-coding regions called introns and join the coding regions known as exons. This process ensures that the final mRNA can be translated into functional proteins. These factors can be categorized into two main types: snRNPs (small nuclear ribonucleoproteins) and non-snRNP splicing factors. snRNPs are part of the spliceosome, the complex responsible for splicing, while non-snRNP factors assist in regulating the splicing process. Together, they ensure accurate and efficient gene expression.