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Updated: Oct 7, 2025

Characterizing RNA Modifications in Single Neurons Using Mass Spectrometry
Published on: April 21, 2022
Non-Coding RNA m6A Modification in Cancer: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets
Da-Hong Chen1, Ji-Gang Zhang2, Chuan-Xing Wu3
1Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
Abstract:
Recently, N6-methyl-adenosine (m6A) ribonucleic acid (RNA) modification, a critical and common internal RNA modification in higher eukaryotes, has generated considerable research interests. Extensive studies have revealed that non-coding RNA m6A modifications (e.g. microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs) are associated with tumorigenesis, metastasis, and other tumour characteristics; in addition, they are crucial molecular regulators of cancer progression. In this review, we discuss the relationship between non-coding RNA m6A modification and cancer progression from the perspective of various cancers. In particular, we focus on important mechanisms in tumour progression such as proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and metastasis, tumour angiogenesis. In addition, we introduce clinical applications to illustrate more vividly that non-coding RNA m6A modification has broad research prospects. With this review, we aim to summarize the latest insights and ideas into non-coding RNA m6A modification in cancer progression and targeted therapy, facilitating further research.
Insights
N6-methyl-adenosine (m6A) RNA modification in non-coding RNAs is key to cancer progression. Understanding these m6A modifications offers new avenues for targeted cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- N6-methyl-adenosine (m6A) is a prevalent internal RNA modification in eukaryotes.
- Non-coding RNA m6A modifications are increasingly recognized for their roles in cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the intricate relationship between non-coding RNA m6A modification and cancer progression.
- To highlight the molecular mechanisms and clinical applications of m6A in various cancers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on m6A modification in non-coding RNAs and cancer.
- Analysis of key cancer progression mechanisms influenced by m6A.
Main Results:
- Non-coding RNA m6A modifications are significantly associated with tumorigenesis, metastasis, and tumor characteristics.
- m6A modifications act as crucial regulators in cancer proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Non-coding RNA m6A modification is a critical factor in cancer progression with broad research prospects.
- Targeted m6A-based therapies hold significant potential for cancer treatment.
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MicroRNAs
Nuclear Export of mRNA
mRNA Stability and Gene Expression
Cis-acting Elements involved in mRNA stability
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lncRNA - Long Non-coding RNAs

