Roles and implications of mRNA N⁶‐methyladenosine in cancer

Abstract

RNA N6‐methyladenosine modification is the most prevalent internal modification of eukaryotic RNAs and has emerged as a novel field of RNA epigenetics, garnering increased attention. To date, m6A modification has been shown to impact multiple RNA metabolic processes and play a vital role in numerous biological processes. Recent evidence suggests that aberrant m6A modification is a hallmark of cancer, and it plays a critical role in cancer development and progression through multiple mechanisms. Here, we review the biological functions of mRNA m6A modification in various types of cancers, with a particular focus on metabolic reprogramming, programmed cell death and tumor metastasis. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of targeting m6A modification or its regulatory proteins as a novel approach of cancer therapy and the progress of research on m6A modification in tumor immunity and immunotherapy. Finally, we summarize the development of different m6A detection methods and their advantages and disadvantages.

TGF-β1 facilitates gallbladder carcinoma metastasis by regulating FOXA1 translation efficiency through m6A modification

“…Recent research indicates that m 6 A modification is currently the most common mRNA modification in human cancer development, with significant implications for the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of malignant tumors [ 47 ]. m 6 A modification alters the expression levels of oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes by regulating post-transcriptional modifications, impacting multiple processes in tumorigenesis including cell proliferation, EMT, angiogenesis, and therapeutic resistance [ 48 – 51 ].…”

Research Advances in the Roles of N6-Methyladenosine Modification in Ovarian Cancer

“… 7 , 12 Owing to its profound impact on RNA metabolism, m6A is involved in various physiological and pathological processes, including immunity, 13 viral infections, 14 inflammation, 15 metabolism, 16 embryogenesis, 17 and cancer. 18 Currently, numerous studies have underscored the close association between m6A and the development and prognosis of malignant tumors. In this paper, we review the latest findings from m6A research in OC, as well as the mechanisms through which m6A regulates the proliferation, migration, invasion, and drug resistance of OC cells, while also summarizing its impact on the development and prognosis of OC.…”

RNA N6-Methyladenosine Modification in DNA Damage Response and Cancer Radiotherapy

“…RNA M6A modification is a novel aspect of molecular processing, which can also determine the sensitivity of cells to radiation [ 17 ]. Undoubtedly, M6A modification plays a critical role in cellular responses to radiation, which could contribute to radioresistance, or vice versa, of cancers [ 18 ]. In this review, we summarize and discuss the recent research progress on RNA M6A modification in the field of radiation biology and the related significance in cancer radiotherapy.…”