The role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in the regulation of circRNAs

Mol Cancer. 2020 Jun 10;19(1):105. doi: 10.1186/s12943-020-01224-3.

Abstract

N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most abundant modification in eukaryotic cells, regulates RNA transcription, processing, splicing, degradation, and translation. Circular RNA (circRNA) is a class of covalently closed RNA molecules characterized by universality, diversity, stability and conservatism of evolution. Accumulating evidence shows that both m6A modification and circRNAs participate in the pathogenesis of multiple diseases, such as cancers, neurological diseases, autoimmune diseases, and infertility. Recently, m6A modification has been identified for its enrichment and vital biological functions in regulating circRNAs. In this review, we summarize the role of m6A modification in the regulation and function of circRNAs. Moreover, we discuss the potential applications and possible future directions in the field.

Keywords: CircRNA; Innate immunity; M6A; M6A modified circRNA; Tumour.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Adenosine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Adenosine / chemistry
  • Animals
  • DNA Methylation*
  • Disease Progression
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic*
  • Humans
  • Methyltransferases / metabolism*
  • Neoplasms / genetics
  • Neoplasms / pathology*
  • RNA, Circular / genetics*

Substances

  • RNA, Circular
  • N-methyladenosine
  • Methyltransferases
  • Adenosine