Plant proteins modulate m⁶A RNA methylation via the regulation of gut microbiota

With the global shift toward sustainable protein sources, plant proteins have gained attention for their metabolic benefits, yet underlying epigenetic mechanisms remain unclear. This review proposes that plant proteins-from whole foods to purified isolates-reshape gut microbiota and metabolite profiles (SCFAs, indole derivatives). These microbial signals modulate host m⁶A RNA methylation via writers/erasers/readers, particularly affecting intestinal barrier function, hepatic lipid metabolism, and adipose thermogenesis. This gut-microbiota-m⁶A axis offers a novel framework for understanding plant protein health effects. Precision nutrition applications must account for inter-individual microbiota variability (enterotypes), which influences metabolite production and subsequent m⁶A outcomes. Targeting this axis provides epigenetic strategies for chronic disease prevention.