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A Method for Measuring RNA N6-methyladenosine Modifications in Cells and Tissues
08:56

A Method for Measuring RNA N6-methyladenosine Modifications in Cells and Tissues

Published on: December 5, 2016

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Detailed resume of RNA m6A demethylases

Dandan Shen1,2, Bo Wang1,2, Ya Gao1,2

  • 1Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education of China; Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China.

Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica. B
|June 1, 2022
PubMed

Insights

N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) is a key mRNA modification. This review details the structure, inhibitors, and functions of the m6A demethylases FTO and ALKBH5 in biological processes and diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Epigenetics
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent internal modification in eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA).
  • m6A modification plays a crucial role in diverse cellular processes and homeostasis.
  • Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) and alkylation protein AlkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5) are the two known m6A demethylases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of the structure, inhibitor development, and biological functions of FTO and ALKBH5.
  • To highlight the involvement of FTO and ALKBH5 in mRNA metabolism and biological signaling pathways.
  • To discuss the role of these demethylases in the pathogenesis of cancer and other diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on FTO and ALKBH5.
  • Analysis of research on m6A modification, demethylases, and their biological roles.
  • Synthesis of information regarding structural, functional, and therapeutic aspects.

Main Results:

  • FTO and ALKBH5 dynamically regulate m6A levels, impacting mRNA processing, export, metabolism, and stability.
  • These demethylases are implicated in various signaling pathways.
  • Dysregulation of FTO and ALKBH5 is associated with cancer and other diseases.

Conclusions:

  • FTO and ALKBH5 are critical regulators of mRNA m6A modification with significant implications in cellular function and disease.
  • Further research into FTO and ALKBH5 structure and inhibitors holds therapeutic potential.
  • Understanding the biological functions of these demethylases is essential for disease intervention.
Keywords:
ALKBH5DiseasesFTOInhibitorsRNA demethylationScreening

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