Emerging roles of the RNA modifications N6-methyladenosine and adenosine-to-inosine in cardiovascular diseases

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Cardiology

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are leading global causes of death and illness.
• Post-transcriptional RNA modifications, known as epitranscriptomics, play a crucial role in interpreting genetic information.
• These modifications are increasingly implicated in the development of CVDs and metabolic disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on the roles of epitranscriptomic modifications in cardiovascular disease.
• To focus on the two most prevalent RNA modifications: N6-methyl-adenosine (m6A) and adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) editing.
• To explore their regulatory pathways, components, and downstream effects in the context of cardiovascular health and disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of accumulated discoveries.
• Synthesis of research on m6A and A-to-I modifications in cardiovascular contexts.
• Analysis of their impact on disease mechanisms and progression.

Main Results:

• N6-methyl-adenosine (m6A) modification is a key regulator in various cardiovascular processes.
• Adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) editing also significantly influences cardiovascular function and disease states.
• Both modifications affect gene expression and cellular pathways relevant to heart health.

Conclusions:

• Epitranscriptomic modifications, particularly m6A and A-to-I editing, are integral to cardiovascular disease pathogenesis.
• Understanding these RNA modifications offers potential therapeutic targets for cardiovascular disorders.
• Further research into epitranscriptomics is crucial for advancing cardiovascular medicine.