RNA Epigenetics in Cancer: Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Implications

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cancer Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• RNA epigenetics (epitranscriptomics) is a key regulatory layer in cancer, distinct from DNA/histone modifications.
• It involves dynamic posttranscriptional RNA processes like modification, stability, and translation, orchestrated by RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs).
• These processes influence mRNA fate, gene expression, and the tumor microenvironment, contributing to cancer hallmarks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review RNA metabolism and epigenetic modifications in tumor progression.
• To focus on the roles of RBPs and RNA modifications in cancer.
• To highlight advances in RNA-based cancer therapeutics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of current research on RNA epigenetics in cancer.
• Analysis of the roles of RBPs and specific RNA modifications.
• Examination of emerging RNA-based therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

• RNA epigenetic regulation forms feedback loops contributing to oncogenesis, immune evasion, metastasis, and drug resistance.
• RBPs and RNA modifications are central to controlling mRNA fate and tumor progression.
• RNA-based therapies like mRNA vaccines and oligonucleotides show promise against 'undruggable' cancer drivers.

Conclusions:

• RNA epigenetics provides a comprehensive framework for understanding cancer biology.
• Targeting transcriptome plasticity through RNA-based strategies is a promising direction for precision oncology.
• Further research into RNA metabolism and modifications can unlock novel cancer treatments.