N6-methyladenosine-mediated gene regulation and therapeutic implications

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation is the most abundant form of mRNA modification in eukaryotes and is at the front line of biological and biomedical re-search. This dynamic and reversible m6A RNA modification determines the fates of modified RNA molecules at the post-transcriptional level, affecting almost all important biological processes. Notably, m6A is also involved in chromatin and transcriptional regulation, while m6A dysregulation is implicated in various dis-eases. Here, we review current knowledge of post-transcriptional and transcrip-tional regulatory mechanisms involving m6A modification. We also discuss their involvement in the occurrence and development of diseases, including cancer, as well as potential theranostic targets, in hope of facilitating the translation of preclinical findings to the clinic.

Automated summary

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation is the most common form of mRNA modification in eukaryotes, playing a crucial role in biological and biomedical research. This dynamic and reversible modification affects the fate of RNA molecules and is involved in various important biological processes. Dysregulation of m6A modification is linked to diseases, especially cancer. This review provides an overview of post-transcriptional and transcriptional regulatory mechanisms involving m6A modification and discusses its implications in disease development, as well as potential targets for therapeutics and diagnostics.