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Updated: Aug 15, 2025

A Method for Measuring RNA N6-methyladenosine Modifications in Cells and Tissues
Published on: December 5, 2016
Emerging Mutual Regulatory Roles between m6A Modification and microRNAs
Zongqin Mei1, Yahao Mou1, Nan Zhang1
1Institute of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Dali University, No. 22 Wanhua Road, Dali 671000, China.
Abstract:
N6-metyladenosine (m6A), one of the most common RNA methylation modifications in mammals, has attracted extensive attentions owing to its regulatory roles in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. As a reversible epigenetic modification on RNAs, m6A is dynamically mediated by the functional interplay among the regulatory proteins of methyltransferases, demethylases and methyl-binding proteins. In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that m6A modification is associated with the production and function of microRNAs (miRNAs). In this review, we summarize the specific kinds of m6A modification methyltransferases, demethylases and methyl-binding proteins. In particular, we focus on describing the roles of m6A modification and its regulatory proteins in the production and function of miRNAs in a variety of pathological and physiological processes. More importantly, we further discuss the mediating mechanisms of miRNAs in m6A modification and its regulatory proteins during the occurrence and development of various diseases.
Insights
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a key RNA modification regulating gene expression. This review details how m6A and its associated proteins impact microRNA production and function in disease.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics
- Molecular Biology
- RNA Biology
Background:
- N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a prevalent RNA modification in mammals, influencing numerous physiological and pathological processes.
- m6A modification is reversible and dynamically regulated by methyltransferases, demethylases, and methyl-binding proteins.
- Emerging evidence highlights a significant link between m6A modification and the biogenesis and function of microRNAs (miRNAs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review m6A modification regulatory proteins, including methyltransferases, demethylases, and methyl-binding proteins.
- To elucidate the roles of m6A modification and its regulatory proteins in miRNA production and function across various biological contexts.
- To discuss the intricate mechanisms by which miRNAs mediate m6A modification and its regulatory proteins in disease pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on m6A modification, regulatory proteins, and miRNAs.
- Analysis of the interplay between m6A machinery and miRNA pathways.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on m6A-miRNA interactions in physiological and pathological conditions.
Main Results:
- Detailed summary of m6A methyltransferases, demethylases, and methyl-binding proteins.
- Comprehensive overview of m6A's impact on miRNA production and function.
- Exploration of miRNA-mediated regulatory mechanisms involving m6A and its proteins in disease.
Conclusions:
- m6A modification and its regulatory proteins are crucial players in miRNA regulation.
- Understanding these interactions provides insights into disease mechanisms.
- This review consolidates knowledge and highlights future research directions in the m6A-miRNA field.
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