The New Perspectives Journal of Medicine

Abstract

N 6 -methyladenosine (m 6 A) is the most prevalent internal RNA post-transcriptional modification in eukaryotes. This type of modification is dynamically reversible and epigenetically regulated by a collaborative interplay of methyltransferases, demethylases, and m 6 A-binding proteins. Modification of m 6 A plays a critical role in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, involving various processes in RNA metabolism, such as RNA processing, nuclear export, and translation, thereby participating in diverse cellular functions, metabolism, and disease processes. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors, ranking high in both incidence and mortality globally. Existing research indicates that m 6 A modification is involved in the development and progression of HCC. However, its specific molecular mechanisms and functions have not been fully elucidated. This review describes the current understanding of the roles of known m 6 A modification factors in HCC and it summarizes the latest advances in research on m 6 A modification in HCC. This review also discusses therapeutic strategies targeting m 6 A modification involvement in HCC, providing a valuable reference to further explore the role of m 6 A modification as a potential therapeutic target in HCC.