m6A modification of non-coding RNA and the control of mammalian gene expression

Biochim Biophys Acta Gene Regul Mech. 2019 Mar;1862(3):310-318. doi: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2018.12.002. Epub 2018 Dec 11.

Abstract

The biology of non-coding RNA (ncRNA) and the regulation of mammalian gene expression is a rapidly expanding field. In this review, we consider how recent advances in technology, enabling the precise mapping of modifications to RNA transcripts, has provided new opportunities to dissect post-transcriptional gene regulation. With this has come the realisation that in the absence of translation, the modification of ncRNAs may play a fundamental role in their regulation, protein interactome and subsequent downstream effector functions. We focus upon modification of RNA by N6-methyladenosine (m6A); its readers, writers and erasers, before considering the differing role of m6A modified lncRNAs MALAT1 and Xist. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: mRNA modifications in gene expression control edited by Dr. Soller Matthias and Dr. Fray Rupert.

Keywords: MALAT1; Xist; m6A; ncRNA.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Adenine / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Gene Silencing
  • Humans
  • RNA Processing, Post-Transcriptional*
  • RNA, Untranslated / genetics*
  • RNA, Untranslated / metabolism

Substances

  • RNA, Untranslated
  • Adenine
  • 6-methyladenine