The RNA m6A reader YTHDF2 controls NK cell antitumor and antiviral immunity

N-6-methyladenosine (m(6)A) is the most prevalent posttranscriptional modification on RNA. NK cells are the predominant innate lymphoid cells that mediate antiviral and antitumor immunity. However, whether and how m(6)A modifications affect NK cell immunity remain unknown. Here, we discover that YTHDF2, a well-known m(6)A reader, is upregulated in NK cells upon activation by cytokines, tumors, and cytomegalovirus infection. Ythdf2 deficiency in NK cells impairs NK cell antitumor and antiviral activity in vivo. YTHDF2 maintains NK cell homeostasis and terminal maturation, correlating with modulating NK cell trafficking and regulating Eomes, respectively. YTHDF2 promotes NK cell effector function and is required for IL-15mediated NK cell survival and proliferation by forming a STAT5-YTHDF2 positive feedback loop. Transcriptome-wide screening identifies Tardbp to be involved in cell proliferation or survival as a YTHDF2-binding target in NK cells. Collectively, we elucidate the biological roles of m(6)A modifications in NK cells and highlight a new direction to harness NK cell antitumor immunity.

Automated summary

The N-6-methyladenosine modification plays a crucial role in NK cell immunity, with YTHDF2 being a key reader; YTHDF2 maintains NK cell homeostasis and function, modulating NK cell survival and proliferation through a positive feedback loop.