RNA Modifications in Tumor Microenvironment: A New Dimension for Cancer Treatment

Qiwen Li1, Yating Sun2, Shuibin Lin3,4

  • 1State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center for Stomatology, and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases West China Hospital of Stomatology Sichuan University Chengdu Sichuan China.

Medcomm
|June 25, 2026
PubMed

Insights

RNA modifications regulate gene expression and impact cancer progression within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Targeting these RNA modifications offers a promising strategy to overcome cancer resistance and improve treatment outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research
  • Epigenetics

Background:

  • RNA modifications are crucial regulators of gene expression in physiological and pathological conditions, especially in cancer.
  • These modifications play significant roles in the tumor microenvironment (TME), influencing tumor growth, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms and functional roles of major RNA modifications (adenosine, guanosine, pseudouridine).
  • To discuss the regulatory roles of RNA modifications in RNA metabolism, genome integrity, and TME pathways.
  • To highlight therapeutic strategies targeting RNA-modifying enzymes for cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on RNA modifications and their functions in cancer.
  • Analysis of the roles of RNA modifications in RNA metabolism, genome integrity, and TME-associated pathways.
  • Examination of therapeutic strategies targeting RNA-modifying enzymes.

Main Results:

  • RNA modifications significantly impact tumor growth, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance within the TME.
  • These modifications modulate crucial stromal pathways including immune responses, extracellular matrix remodeling, and vascular supply.
  • RNA modifications dynamically regulate intercellular communication within the TME.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting RNA modifications is a promising strategy for overcoming cancer resistance.
  • Understanding RNA modification mechanisms can lead to improved cancer treatment outcomes.
  • Further research into RNA-modifying enzymes and their targeted inhibition holds potential for novel cancer therapies.

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