Crosstalk between m6A modification and alternative splicing during cancer progression

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Epigenetics
• RNA Biology

Background:

• N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant internal mRNA modification in eukaryotes.
• m6A modifications influence RNA metabolism and cellular processes.
• m6A is regulated by methyltransferases, demethylases, and binding proteins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biological functions of m6A modification machinery in alternative splicing.
• To explore the implications of m6A-dependent alternative splicing in tumorigenesis.
• To discuss the clinical relevance of m6A and alternative splicing in cancer therapies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on m6A modification and alternative splicing.
• Analysis of the regulatory mechanisms between m6A and splicing.
• Examination of the role of m6A-splicing crosstalk in cancer.

Main Results:

• m6A modification regulates alternative splicing by recruiting RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) or affecting RBP-RNA interactions.
• Alternative splicing can impact m6A deposition and recognition.
• The interplay between m6A and alternative splicing is implicated in cancer initiation and progression.

Conclusions:

• m6A modification and alternative splicing are intricately linked, impacting RNA processing and cellular functions.
• Understanding m6A-dependent alternative splicing provides insights into cancer mechanisms.
• Targeting m6A-splicing pathways holds promise for cancer therapeutics.