The role of m⁶A modification in cardiovascular disease: A systematic review and integrative analysis

Background and aims: This study focused on the recent advancements in understanding the association between N6-methyladenosine (m⁶A) modification and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods: The potential mechanisms of m⁶A related to CVD were summarized by literature review. Associations between m⁶A levels and CVD were explored across 8 electronic databases: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Sinomed, Wan Fang, CNKI, and Vip. Standard mean difference (SMD) and 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI) were calculated to assess the total effect in integrated analysis.

Results: The systematic review summarized previous studies on the association between m⁶A modification and CVD, highlighting the potential role of m⁶A in CVD progression. A total of 11 studies were included for integrative analysis. The mean m⁶A levels were significantly higher in CVD than those in normal controls (SMD = 1.86, 95 % CI: 0.16-3.56, P < 0.01).

Conclusions: This systematic review provided new targets for early detection and treatment for CVD. And the integrated analysis showed that increased level of m⁶A was associated with CVD.