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Updated: May 6, 2026

A Method for Measuring RNA N6-methyladenosine Modifications in Cells and Tissues
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A Method for Measuring RNA N6-methyladenosine Modifications in Cells and Tissues

Published on: December 5, 2016

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m(6)A mRNA methylation: a new circadian pacesetter

Michael H Hastings1

  • 1MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK.

Cell
|November 12, 2013
PubMed

Insights

The function of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation in RNA has been unclear. This study reveals m6A regulates RNA processing and stabilizes the mammalian circadian clock’s rhythm.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Chronobiology

Background:

  • N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent internal modification in eukaryotic messenger RNA.
  • The biological significance of m6A has remained largely enigmatic since its discovery in the 1970s.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the functional role of m6A methylation in RNA.
  • To investigate the impact of m6A on the mammalian circadian clockwork.

Main Methods:

  • The study likely involved molecular biology techniques to analyze RNA modifications and circadian rhythms.
  • Specific methods may include RNA sequencing, gene expression analysis, and manipulation of m6A levels.

Main Results:

  • Fustin et al. demonstrate that m6A methylation plays a crucial role in regulating RNA processing.
  • The findings indicate that m6A influences the period and stability of oscillations in the mammalian circadian clock.

Conclusions:

  • m6A methylation is essential for proper RNA processing.
  • This modification is a key determinant of the robustness and timing of the mammalian circadian clock.

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