The dual role of N6-methyladenosine modification of RNAs is involved in human cancers

As the most abundant and reversible RNA modification in eukaryotic cells, m(6)A triggers a new layer of epi-transcription. M(6)A modification occurs through a methylation process modified by writers complexes, reversed by erasers, and exerts its role depending on various readers. Emerging evidence shows that there is a strong association between m(6)A and human diseases, especially cancers. Herein, we review bi-aspects of m(6)A in regulating cancers mediated by the m(6)A-associated proteins, which exert vital and specific roles in the development of various cancers. Generally, the m(6)A modification performs promotion or inhibition functions (dual role) in tumorigenesis and progression of various cancers, which suggests a new concept in cancer regulations. In addition, m(6)A-targeted therapies including competitive antagonists of m(6)A-associated proteins may provide a new tumour intervention in the future.