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Published on: September 7, 2017
RNA cytosine modifications regulates musculoskeletal disorders
Haitao Wang1,2, Peirui Ke1, Xing Zhao3,4
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Medical College of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
Molecular Biology Reports
|July 28, 2026
Summary
RNA cytosine modifications (RCMs), like 5-methylcytosine and N4-acetylcytidine, are crucial in regulating RNA and biological processes. Their dysregulation is linked to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), suggesting therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Epitranscriptomics and molecular biology
- Molecular mechanisms of RNA modifications
- Pathogenesis of musculoskeletal disorders
Background:
- RNA cytosine modifications (RCMs), including 5-methylcytosine (m⁵C) and N4-acetylcytidine (ac⁴C), are vital reversible epigenetic marks.
- These modifications regulate RNA processing, stability, and translation, impacting fundamental cellular functions.
- Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are debilitating conditions affecting the locomotor system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular basis of RCMs in various MSDs.
- To explore the mechanisms linking RCM dysregulation to MSD pathogenesis.
- To discuss translational strategies targeting RCM pathways for MSD therapy.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of current literature on RCMs and MSDs.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms involved in RCM-associated pathogenesis.
- Evaluation of therapeutic potential of targeting RCM-regulatory enzymes.
Main Results:
- Dysregulation of m⁵C and ac⁴C modifications contributes to MSDs via mechanisms like chondrocyte pyroptosis and altered cell differentiation.
- RCMs are linked to key pathological features of MSDs, including immune infiltration and ferroptosis.
- Pharmacological targeting of RCM enzymes shows promise in preclinical MSD models.
Conclusions:
- RCMs play a significant role in the pathogenesis of diverse MSDs.
- Targeting epitranscriptomic pathways offers a promising therapeutic avenue for MSDs.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate RCM roles and develop clinical applications.
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