The role of N6-methyladenosine in macrophage polarization: A novel treatment strategy for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis

Abstract

RNA methylation modifications, as a widespread type of modification in eukaryotic cells, especially N6-methyladenosine (m⁶A), are associated with many activities in organisms, including macrophage polarization and progression of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Macrophages in the liver are of diverse origin and complex phenotype, exhibiting different functions in development of NASH. In the review, we discuss the functions of m⁶A and m⁶A-related enzymes in macrophage polarization. Furthermore, we retrospect the role of macrophage polarization in NASH. Finally, we discuss the prospects of m⁶A in macrophages and NASH, and provide guidance for the treatment of NASH.

Keywords: Macrophage polarization; N6-methyladenosine; Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.