Component of the nuclear pore complex that has a direct role in nuclear protein import (PubMed:10811608). Actively displaces NLSs from importin-alpha, and facilitates disassembly of the importin-alpha:beta-cargo complex and importin recycling (PubMed:16222336). Interacts with regulatory proteins of cell cycle progression including CDKN1B (PubMed:10891500, PubMed:10811608). This interaction is required for correct intracellular transport and degradation of CDKN1B (PubMed:10811608).