RBM15 promotes hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced ferroptosis in human cardiomyocytes by mediating m6A modification of

Yi Cheng1, Jiamin Wan1, Yingyue Xu1

  • 1Department of Geriatric Medicine, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing, Bishan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 9, Double Star Avenue, Biquan Street, Bishan District, Chongqing, 402760, China.

Hereditas
|July 18, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

RNA binding motif protein 15 (RBM15) silencing reduces ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes after myocardial infarction. This occurs by regulating N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification of acyl-CoA synthetase long chain family member 4 (ACSL4) mRNA stability.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Research
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cellular Pathology

Background:

  • Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) involves cardiomyocyte necrosis due to severe ischemia.
  • Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury triggers ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes.
  • The roles of RBM15 and ACSL4 in I/R-induced ferroptosis require investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of RBM15 and ACSL4 on I/R-induced ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes.
  • To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms, including m6A modification.

Main Methods:

  • Established an in vitro myocardial infarction model using AC16 cells subjected to hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R).
  • Utilized qRT-PCR, Western blot, CCK-8 assay, and commercial kits to assess gene expression, cell viability, and ferroptosis.
  • Employed m6A quantification, RIP, meRIP, and dual-luciferase reporter assays to analyze RBM15-ACSL4 interactions and m6A modification.

Main Results:

  • RBM15 mRNA levels were elevated in AMI patient serums and H/R-treated cells.
  • RBM15 silencing enhanced cell viability and reduced oxidative stress and ferroptosis.
  • RBM15 knockdown decreased m6A modification of ACSL4, suppressed ACSL4 mRNA stability, and prevented ferroptosis.

Conclusions:

  • RBM15 silencing protects human cardiomyocytes against H/R-induced ferroptosis.
  • This protection is mediated by the regulation of ACSL4 mRNA stability through m6A modification.
  • RBM15 serves as a potential therapeutic target for myocardial infarction.