RNA m6 A methylation in cancer

Mol Oncol. 2023 Feb;17(2):195-229. doi: 10.1002/1878-0261.13326. Epub 2022 Nov 6.

Abstract

N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A) is one of the most abundant internal modifications in eukaryotic messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). It is a reversible and dynamic RNA modification that has been observed in both internal coding segments and untranslated regions. Studies indicate that m6 A modifications play important roles in translation, RNA splicing, export, degradation and ncRNA processing control. In this review, we focus on the profiles and biological functions of RNA m6 A methylation on both mRNAs and ncRNAs. The dynamic modification of m6 A and its potential roles in cancer development are discussed. Moreover, we discuss the possibility of m6 A modifications serving as potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and targets for therapy.

Keywords: cancers; m6A; m6A modulators; mRNA; ncRNA; therapy.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Methylation
  • Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Neoplasms* / metabolism
  • RNA Processing, Post-Transcriptional / genetics
  • RNA* / metabolism
  • RNA, Messenger / genetics
  • RNA, Messenger / metabolism
  • RNA, Untranslated / metabolism

Substances

  • RNA
  • RNA, Messenger
  • RNA, Untranslated