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The Biological Function, Mechanism, and Clinical Significance of m6A RNA Modifications in Head and Neck Carcinoma: A

Feng-Yang Jing1, Li-Ming Zhou1, Yu-Jie Ning1

  • 1Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Department of Dental Implant Center, Stomatologic Hospital & College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.

Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology
|June 17, 2021
PubMed

Insights

This review explores how m6A RNA modification impacts head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) development. Understanding m6A regulation offers new therapeutic targets for HNSCC treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Epigenetics
  • Molecular Oncology
  • Cancer Biology

Background:

  • Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a prevalent cancer with incompletely understood molecular underpinnings.
  • Epigenetic modifications, particularly N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification, are increasingly recognized for their significant roles in HNSCC.
  • Elucidating these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective HNSCC treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the multifaceted roles of m6A RNA modification in various HNSCC subtypes.
  • To discuss the regulatory influence of m6A on the tumor microenvironment and immune cells.
  • To identify potential therapeutic targets based on m6A-mediated regulation for improved HNSCC treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on m6A modification in HNSCC.
  • Analysis of m6A's role in different HNSCC types (thyroid, nasopharyngeal, hypopharyngeal, oral).
  • Examination of m6A's impact on tumor microenvironment and immune cell function.

Main Results:

  • m6A modification is implicated in the oncogenesis of diverse HNSCC types.
  • m6A plays a regulatory role in immune cells within the tumor microenvironment.
  • m6A affects RNA synthesis, transport, and translation, influencing mRNA and ncRNA function.

Conclusions:

  • m6A RNA modification is a critical factor in HNSCC development and progression.
  • Targeting m6A-related proteins presents a promising strategy for novel HNSCC therapies.
  • Modulating m6A pathways offers a potential avenue for reengineering cell activity and developing simpler HNSCC interventions.
Keywords:
N6-methyladenosineRNA methylationepigeneticshead and neck squamous cell carcinomatargeted therapytumor microenvironment

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