Importance of N⁶-methyladenosine RNA modification in lung cancer (Review)

The N⁶-methyladenosine (m⁶A) modification is the most common mRNA modification in eukaryotes and exerts biological functions by affecting RNA metabolism. The m⁶A modification is installed by m⁶A methyltransferases, removed by demethylases and recognized by m⁶A-binding proteins. The interaction between these three elements maintains the dynamic equilibrium of m⁶A in cells. Accumulating evidence indicates that m⁶A RNA methylation has a significant impact on RNA metabolism and is involved in the pathogenesis of cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The treatment options for lung cancer have developed considerably over the past few years; however, the survival rate of patients with lung cancer still remains very low. Although diagnostic methods and targeted therapies have been rapidly developed in recent years, the underlying mechanism and importance of m⁶A RNA methylation in the pathogenesis of lung cancer remains ambiguous. The current review summarized the biological functions of m⁶A modification and considers the potential roles of m⁶A regulators in the occurrence and development of lung cancer.