A dynamic reversible RNA N⁶ -methyladenosine modification: current status and perspectives

Area of Science:

• Epigenetics
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent RNA epigenetic modification.
• m6A plays critical roles in diverse biological functions.
• Enzymes catalyzing and removing m6A are key to its regulatory roles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in m6A modification research.
• To highlight the functions of m6A writers, erasers, and readers.
• To explore m6A's roles in RNA metabolism, cancer, and lipid metabolism.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on m6A modifications.
• Analysis of the roles of m6A-associated enzymes (writers, erasers, readers).
• Investigation of m6A's involvement in cellular processes and disease.

Main Results:

• m6A modifications are integral to mRNA metabolism and physiological processes.
• m6A readers, including YTH domain proteins and IGF2BP family, influence mRNA fate.
• m6A is implicated in cancer and lipid metabolism, with emerging mechanistic insights.

Conclusions:

• m6A modifications are fundamental regulators of gene expression and cellular function.
• Understanding m6A writers, erasers, and readers is crucial for elucidating its biological impact.
• Further research into m6A's molecular mechanisms holds therapeutic potential for cancer and metabolic diseases.