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Regulatory roles of RNA modifications in breast cancer

Kanchan Kumari1,2, Paula Groza1,2, Francesca Aguilo1,2

  • 1Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden.

NAR Cancer
|September 20, 2021
PubMed

Insights

RNA modifications, collectively termed the epitranscriptome, are crucial for gene expression and cellular processes. Aberrant epitranscriptomic marks are linked to human diseases, including breast cancer, highlighting their therapeutic potential.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Epigenetics
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • RNA modifications constitute the epitranscriptome, dynamically regulating gene expression.
  • These modifications are found in ribosomal RNA (rRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA).
  • Dysregulation of RNA modifications is implicated in human diseases, notably breast cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review major RNA modifications in tRNA, rRNA, and mRNA.
  • To categorize breast cancer-associated epitranscriptomic marks and their role in tumorigenesis.
  • To discuss emerging tRNA modifications and their pathways in breast cancer.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of RNA modifications and their roles in cellular processes.
  • Categorization of epitranscriptomic alterations linked to breast cancer.
  • Summary of current research on tRNA modifications in breast cancer.

Main Results:

  • Identified key RNA modifications in tRNA, rRNA, and mRNA relevant to breast cancer.
  • Detailed the contribution of specific epitranscriptomic marks to breast tumorigenesis.
  • Highlighted less abundant tRNA modifications and their pathways in breast cancer development.

Conclusions:

  • Epitranscriptomic dysregulation is a significant factor in breast cancer.
  • Understanding these modifications offers therapeutic avenues for breast and other cancers.
  • Further research into epitranscriptomics is crucial for developing novel cancer treatments.

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