METTL14-mediated m6A modification of DUSP6 mRNA participating in postoperative cognitive dysfunction due to

Shengfeng Deng1, Guo Mu1, Jun Li1

  • 1Department of Anesthesiology, Zigong Fourth People's Hospital, Zigong, Sichuan Province 643000, PR China.

Abstract

Insights

Sevoflurane triggers cognitive dysfunction by altering N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, specifically impacting METTL14 and DUSP6 levels. Restoring these factors mitigates sevoflurane-induced POCD.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Molecular Biology
  • Anesthesiology

Background:

  • Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a significant concern following anesthesia.
  • Sevoflurane is a commonly used anesthetic agent implicated in POCD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms behind sevoflurane-induced POCD.
  • To investigate the role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, METTL14, and DUSP6 in sevoflurane's effects.

Main Methods:

  • Establishment of sevoflurane-induced POCD models in C57BL/6J mice and SH-SY5Y cells.
  • Assessment of cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, and m6A levels.
  • Analysis of METTL14 and DUSP6 expression and interaction using qPCR, Western blot, RIP-qPCR, and Me-RIP.
  • Evaluation of cognitive function in mice via water maze test.

Main Results:

  • Sevoflurane treatment suppressed cell viability, proliferation, and METTL14 expression while increasing apoptosis.
  • METTL14 overexpression enhanced m6A and DUSP6 levels, reduced cell damage, and improved cognitive function.
  • Knockdown of DUSP6 reversed the protective effects of METTL14 overexpression.

Conclusions:

  • Sevoflurane induces POCD by modulating the METTL14/DUSP6 pathway via m6A methylation.
  • Targeting the METTL14/DUSP6 axis may offer a therapeutic strategy for sevoflurane-induced POCD.