Structural insights into DNA N(6)-adenine methylation by the MTA1 complex

Targeting key RNA methylation enzymes to improve the outcome of colorectal cancer chemotherapy (Review)

RNA methylation modifications are closely linked to tumor development, migration, invasion and responses to various therapies. Recent studies have shown notable advancements regarding the roles of RNA methylation in tumor immunotherapy, the tumor microenvironment and metabolic reprogramming. However, research on the association between tumor chemoresistance and N6‑methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferases in specific cancer types is still scarce. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most common gastrointestinal cancers worldwide. Conventional chemotherapy remains the predominant treatment modality for CRC and chemotherapy resistance is the primary cause of treatment failure. The expression levels of m6A methyltransferases, including methyltransferase‑like 3 (METTL3), METTL14 and METTL16, in CRC tissue samples are associated with patients' clinical outcomes and chemotherapy efficacy. Natural pharmaceutical ingredients, such as quercetin, have the potential to act as METTL3 inhibitors to combat chemotherapy resistance in patients with CRC. The present review discussed the various roles of different types of key RNA methylation enzymes in the development of CRC, focusing on the mechanisms associated with chemotherapy resistance. The progress in the development of certain inhibitors is also listed. The potential of using natural remedies to develop antitumor medications that target m6A methylation is also outlined.

Deciphering the Epigenetic Symphony of Cancer: Insights and Epigenetic Therapies Implications

Epigenetic machinery is a cornerstone in normal cell development, orchestrating tissue-specific gene expression in mammalian cells. Aberrations in this intricate landscape drive substantial changes in gene function, emerging as a linchpin in cancer etiology and progression. While cancer was conventionally perceived as solely a genetic disorder, its contemporary definition encompasses genetic alterations intertwined with disruptive epigenetic abnormalities. This review explores the profound impact of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs on fundamental cellular processes. When these pivotal epigenetic mechanisms undergo disruption, they intricately guide the acquisition of the 6 hallmark characteristics of cancer within seemingly normal cells. Leveraging the latest advancements in decoding these epigenetic intricacies holds immense promise, heralding a new era in developing targeted and more efficacious treatment modalities against cancers driven by aberrant epigenetic modifications.