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NSUN-Mediated m5C RNA Modification in Stem Cell Regulation.
Jiin Moon1, Hyohi Lee1, Yeonju Jang1
1Department of Convergent Bioscience and Informatics, and Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea.
Cells
|October 28, 2025
Summary
5-methylcytosine (m5C) RNA modifications, regulated by NSUN enzymes, are crucial for stem cell identity, pluripotency, and differentiation. Disruptions in m5C impact development, highlighting its essential role in embryogenesis and regenerative medicine.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics
- RNA biology
- Stem cell biology
Background:
- N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modifications are well-studied in stem cells.
- The role of 5-methylcytosine (m5C) RNA modifications in stem cell biology is less defined.
- NSUN proteins are key RNA methyltransferases catalyzing m5C.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the roles of NSUN-mediated m5C modifications in stem cell regulation.
- To highlight the impact of m5C on stem cell identity, pluripotency, and differentiation.
- To underscore the importance of m5C in development and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on m5C modifications in stem cells.
- Analysis of evidence from embryonic and mesenchymal stem cells.
- Examination of data from animal models.
Main Results:
- NSUN-mediated m5C occurs on diverse RNA types (rRNA, tRNA, mRNA, etc.).
- m5C influences stem cell self-renewal, cell cycle, RNA stability, metabolism, and lineage specification.
- Dysregulation of m5C leads to developmental defects.
Conclusions:
- m5C is a dynamic regulator of stem cell biology.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate NSUN family roles and m5C targets in stem cells.
- m5C has implications for development, regenerative medicine, cancer, and interacts with other RNA modifications.
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