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, m⁶ A modification has been shown to impact multiple RNA metabolic processes and play a vital role in numerous biological processes. Recent evidence suggests that aberrant m⁶ A 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 m⁶ A 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 m⁶ A modification or its regulatory proteins as a novel approach of cancer therapy and the progress of research on m⁶ A modification in tumor immunity and immunotherapy. Finally, we summarize the development of different m⁶ A detection methods and their advantages and disadvantages.

Keywords: N6-methyladenosine; cancer therapy; immunotherapy; m6A methylation.