IGF2BP2: an m⁶A reader that affects cellular function and disease progression

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Epigenetics
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) is a key reader of N⁶-methyladenosine (m⁶A) modifications.
• IGF2BP2 recognizes and binds m⁶A sites on target mRNAs, stabilizing them and influencing gene expression.
• Dysregulation of IGF2BP2-mediated m⁶A modification is implicated in various diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular mechanisms of IGF2BP2 in enhancing mRNA stability through m⁶A modification.
• To elucidate IGF2BP2's role in regulating cell ferroptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), stemness, angiogenesis, inflammation, and lipid metabolism.
• To provide insights into IGF2BP2's impact on disease progression and its potential as a therapeutic target.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on molecular mechanisms.
• Analysis of studies investigating IGF2BP2's role in cellular functions and disease.
• Synthesis of current research progress on IGF2BP2.

Main Results:

• IGF2BP2 enhances mRNA stability of downstream targets via m⁶A binding.
• IGF2BP2 significantly impacts ferroptosis, EMT, stemness, angiogenesis, inflammatory responses, and lipid metabolism.
• IGF2BP2's functions are crucial for disease progression, particularly in tumors.

Conclusions:

• IGF2BP2 plays a critical role in regulating fundamental cellular processes through m⁶A-dependent mRNA stabilization.
• Understanding IGF2BP2's mechanisms offers new perspectives on cell functions like ferroptosis and EMT.
• Targeting IGF2BP2 presents a promising therapeutic strategy for tumors and other diseases.