1
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Qu Y, Gao N, Zhang S, Gao L, He B, Wang C, Gong C, Shi Q, Li Z, Yang S, Xiao Y. Role of N6-methyladenosine RNA modification in cancer. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e715. [PMID: 39252821 PMCID: PMC11381670 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant modification of RNA in eukaryotic cells. Previous studies have shown that m6A is pivotal in diverse diseases especially cancer. m6A corelates with the initiation, progression, resistance, invasion, and metastasis of cancer. However, despite these insights, a comprehensive understanding of its specific roles and mechanisms within the complex landscape of cancer is still elusive. This review begins by outlining the key regulatory proteins of m6A modification and their posttranslational modifications (PTMs), as well as the role in chromatin accessibility and transcriptional activity within cancer cells. Additionally, it highlights that m6A modifications impact cancer progression by modulating programmed cell death mechanisms and affecting the tumor microenvironment through various cancer-associated immune cells. Furthermore, the review discusses how microorganisms can induce enduring epigenetic changes and oncogenic effect in microorganism-associated cancers by altering m6A modifications. Last, it delves into the role of m6A modification in cancer immunotherapy, encompassing RNA therapy, immune checkpoint blockade, cytokine therapy, adoptive cell transfer therapy, and direct targeting of m6A regulators. Overall, this review clarifies the multifaceted role of m6A modification in cancer and explores targeted therapies aimed at manipulating m6A modification, aiming to advance cancer research and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Qu
- Department of Gastroenterology Xinqiao Hospital Army Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Nannan Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology Xinqiao Hospital Army Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Shengwei Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology Xinqiao Hospital Army Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Limin Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology Xinqiao Hospital Army Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Bing He
- Department of Gastroenterology Xinqiao Hospital Army Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology Xinqiao Hospital Army Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Chunli Gong
- Department of Gastroenterology Xinqiao Hospital Army Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Qiuyue Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University Nanning Guangxi China
| | - Zhibin Li
- Department of Gastroenterology Xinqiao Hospital Army Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Shiming Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology Xinqiao Hospital Army Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Yufeng Xiao
- Department of Gastroenterology Xinqiao Hospital Army Medical University Chongqing China
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2
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Xia X, Qu R. The Roles of RNA N6-methyladenosine Modifications in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024:10.1007/s12013-024-01464-w. [PMID: 39095568 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01464-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most widespread RNA internal modification involved in RNA metabolism. M6A regulators consist of writers, erasers and readers. They exert their function by methylation, demethylation and recognization respectively, participating in cell biology and immune responses. Previously, the focus of m6A modification is its effect on tumor progress. Currently, extensive m6A-related studies have been performed in autoimmune diseases, such as RA, IBD and SLE, revealing that the unique influence of m6A modification in autoimmunity is undeniable. In this review, we summarize the function of m6A regulators, analyze their roles in pathogenic immune cells, summarize the m6A modification in SLE, and provide the potential m6A-targeting therapies for autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xia
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Rui Qu
- Faculty of Civil Engineering and Mechanics, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China.
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3
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Meng M, Zhong Z, Song L, Zhang Z, Yin X, Xie X, Tian L, Wu W, Yang Y, Deng Y, Peng H, Wu S, Ran G, Lin Y, Lai Q, Bi Q, Yan F, Ji Y, Wang Y, Li X, Yi P, Yu J, Deng Y. mTOR Signaling Promotes Rapid m6A mRNA Methylation to Regulate NK-Cell Activation and Effector Functions. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:1039-1057. [PMID: 38640466 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
NK cells can be rapidly activated in response to cytokines during host defense against malignant cells or viral infection. However, it remains unclear what mechanisms precisely and rapidly regulate the expression of a large number of genes involved in activating NK cells. In this study, we discovered that NK-cell N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation levels were rapidly upregulated upon short-term NK-cell activation and were repressed in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Deficiency of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) or METTL14 moderately influenced NK-cell homeostasis, while double-knockout of METTL3/14 more significantly impacted NK-cell homeostasis, maturation, and antitumor immunity. This suggests a cooperative role of METTL3 and METTL14 in regulating NK-cell development and effector functions. Using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing, we demonstrated that genes involved in NK-cell effector functions, such as Prf1 and Gzmb, were directly modified by m6A methylation. Furthermore, inhibiting mTOR complex 1 activation prevented m6A methylation levels from increasing when NK cells were activated, and this could be restored by S-adenosylmethionine supplementation. Collectively, we have unraveled crucial roles for rapid m6A mRNA methylation downstream of the mTOR complex 1-S-adenosylmethionine signal axis in regulating NK-cell activation and effector functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Meng
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zhong
- The Fifth People's Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Liang Song
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhaohui Zhang
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Yin
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiqiang Xie
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Tian
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Hematologic Malignancies Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Wei Wu
- Thoracic Surgery Department, Southwest Hospital, The First Hospital Affiliated to Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yao Yang
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yafei Deng
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Hongyan Peng
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Shuting Wu
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Guanghe Ran
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuqing Lin
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiangqiang Lai
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qinghua Bi
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fulin Yan
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Ji
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaohui Li
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Hematologic Malignancies Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Youcai Deng
- Department of Clinical Hematology, College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine Science, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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4
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Li F, Zeng C, Liu J, Wang L, Yuan X, Yuan L, Xia X, Huang W. The YTH domain-containing protein family: Emerging players in immunomodulation and tumour immunotherapy targets. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e1784. [PMID: 39135292 PMCID: PMC11319238 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The modification of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays a pivotal role in tumor by altering both innate and adaptive immune systems through various pathways, including the regulation of messenger RNA. The YTH domain protein family, acting as "readers" of m6A modifications, affects RNA splicing, stability, and immunogenicity, thereby playing essential roles in immune regulation and antitumor immunity. Despite their significance, the impact of the YTH domain protein family on tumor initiation and progression, as well as their involvement in tumor immune regulation and therapy, remains underexplored and lacks comprehensive review. CONCLUSION This review introduces the molecular characteristics of the YTH domain protein family and their physiological and pathological roles in biological behavior, emphasizing their mechanisms in regulating immune responses and antitumor immunity. Additionally, the review discusses the roles of the YTH domain protein family in immune-related diseases and tumor resistance, highlighting that abnormal expression or dysfunction of YTH proteins is closely linked to tumor resistance. KEY POINTS This review provides an in-depth understanding of the YTH domain protein family in immune regulation and antitumor immunity, suggesting new strategies and directions for immunotherapy of related diseases. These insights not only deepen our comprehension of m6A modifications and YTH protein functions but also pave the way for future research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenghe Li
- Department of Gynaecology and ObstetricsSecond Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Chong Zeng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care MedicineThe Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South ChinaChangshaHunanChina
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of PathologyThe Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South ChinaChangshaHunanChina
| | - Lei Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and the Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of EducationCancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Xiaorui Yuan
- Department of Gynaecology and ObstetricsSecond Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Li Yuan
- Department of Nuclear MedicineThe Third Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Xiaomeng Xia
- Department of Gynaecology and ObstetricsSecond Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- National Clinical Research Center of Geriatric DisordersXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Research Center of Carcinogenesis and Targeted TherapyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
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5
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Esmaeili N, Bakheet A, Tse W, Liu S, Han X. Interaction of the intestinal cytokines-JAKs-STAT3 and 5 axes with RNA N6-methyladenosine to promote chronic inflammation-induced colorectal cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1352845. [PMID: 39136000 PMCID: PMC11317299 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1352845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers, with a high mortality rate worldwide. Mounting evidence indicates that mRNA modifications are crucial in RNA metabolism, transcription, processing, splicing, degradation, and translation. Studies show that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is mammalians' most common epi-transcriptomic modification. It has been demonstrated that m6A is involved in cancer formation, progression, invasion, and metastasis, suggesting it could be a potential biomarker for CRC diagnosis and developing therapeutics. Cytokines, growth factors, and hormones function in JAK/STAT3/5 signaling pathway, and they could regulate the intestinal response to infection, inflammation, and tumorigenesis. Reports show that the JAK/STAT3/5 pathway is involved in CRC development. However, the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3/5 (STAT3, STAT5) can act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors in the context of tissue types. Also, epigenetic modifications and mutations could alter the balance between pro-oncogenic and tumor suppressor activities of the STAT3/5 signaling pathway. Thus, exploring the interaction of cytokines-JAKs-STAT3 and/or STAT5 with mRNA m6A is of great interest. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the characteristics and functions of m6A and JAKs-STAT3/5 and their relationship with gastrointestinal (GI) cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nardana Esmaeili
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center (MHMC), Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Division of Cancer Biology, Department of Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center (MHMC), Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Ahmed Bakheet
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center (MHMC), Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Division of Cancer Biology, Department of Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center (MHMC), Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - William Tse
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center (MHMC), Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Shujun Liu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center (MHMC), Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Xiaonan Han
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center (MHMC), Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Division of Cancer Biology, Department of Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center (MHMC), Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Cancer Genomics and Epigenomics Program, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), Cleveland, OH, United States
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6
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Han X, Zhu Y, Ke J, Zhai Y, Huang M, Zhang X, He H, Zhang X, Zhao X, Guo K, Li X, Han Z, Zhang Y. Progression of m 6A in the tumor microenvironment: hypoxia, immune and metabolic reprogramming. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:331. [PMID: 39033180 PMCID: PMC11271487 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02092-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has aroused widespread discussion in the scientific community as a mode of RNA modification. m6A comprises writers, erasers, and readers, which regulates RNA production, nuclear export, and translation and is very important for human health. A large number of studies have found that the regulation of m6A is closely related to the occurrence and invasion of tumors, while the homeostasis and function of the tumor microenvironment (TME) determine the occurrence and development of tumors to some extent. TME is composed of a variety of immune cells (T cells, B cells, etc.) and nonimmune cells (tumor-associated mesenchymal stem cells (TA-MSCs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), etc.). Current studies suggest that m6A is involved in regulating the function of various cells in the TME, thereby affecting tumor progression. In this manuscript, we present the composition of m6A and TME, the relationship between m6A methylation and characteristic changes in TME, the role of m6A methylation in TME, and potential therapeutic strategies to provide new perspectives for better treatment of tumors in clinical work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Han
- First Clinical College of Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Linfen Central Hospital, Linfen, China
| | - Juan Ke
- Linfen Central Hospital, Linfen, China
| | | | - Min Huang
- Linfen Central Hospital, Linfen, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Linfen Central Hospital, Linfen, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Zhongyu Han
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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7
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Chen Y, Liu M, Lu M, Luo L, Han Z, Liu X. Exploring the impact of m 6A modification on immune diseases: mechanisms and therapeutic implication. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1387582. [PMID: 39072324 PMCID: PMC11272477 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1387582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a chemical modification of RNA and has become a widely discussed topic among scientific researchers in recent years. It is distributed in various organisms, including eukaryotes and bacteria. It has been found that m6A is composed of writers, erasers and readers and is involved in biological functions such as splicing, transport and translation of RNA. The balance of the human immune microenvironment is important for human health abnormalities. Increasing studies have found that m6A affects the development of immune diseases such as inflammatory enteritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by participating in the homeostatic regulation of the immune microenvironment in vivo. In this manuscript, we introduce the composition, biological function, regulation of m6A in the immune microenvironment and its progression in various immune diseases, providing new targets and directions for the treatment of immune diseases in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Chen
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Miao Lu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Linling Luo
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhongyu Han
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xide Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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8
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Zou Z, He C. The YTHDF proteins display distinct cellular functions on m 6A-modified RNA. Trends Biochem Sci 2024; 49:611-621. [PMID: 38677920 PMCID: PMC11227416 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
YTHDF proteins are main cytoplasmic 'reader' proteins of RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation in mammals. They are largely responsible for m6A-mediated regulation in the cell cytosol by controlling both mRNA translation and degradation. Recent functional and mechanistic investigations of the YTHDF proteins revealed that these proteins have different functions to enable versatile regulation of the epitranscriptome. Their divergent functions largely originate from their different amino acid sequences in the low-complexity N termini. Consequently, they have different phase separation propensities and possess distinct post-translational modifications (PTMs). Different PTMs, subcellular localizations, and competition among partner proteins have emerged as three major mechanisms that control the functions of these YTHDF proteins. We also summarize recent progress on critical roles of these YTHDF proteins in anticancer immunity and the potential for targeting these proteins for developing new anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyu Zou
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Chuan He
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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9
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Sun X, Wang H, Pu X, Wu Y, Yuan X, Wang X, Lu H. Manipulating the tumour immune microenvironment by N6-methyladenosine RNA modification. Cancer Gene Ther 2024:10.1038/s41417-024-00791-7. [PMID: 38834772 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00791-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A), a posttranscriptional regulatory mechanism, is the most common epigenetic modification in mammalian mRNA. M6A modifications play a crucial role in the developmental network of immune cells. The expression of m6A-related regulators often affects carcinogenesis and tumour suppression networks. In the tumour microenvironment, m6A-modified enzymes can affect the occurrence and progression of tumours by regulating the activation and invasion of tumour-associated immune cells. Immunotherapy, which utilises immune cells, has been demonstrated to be a powerful weapon in tumour treatment and is increasingly being used in the clinic. Here, we provide an updated and comprehensive overview of how m6A modifications affect invasive immune cells and their potential role in immune regulation. In addition, we summarise the regulation of epigenetic regulators associated with m6A modifications in tumour cells on the antitumour response of immune cells in the tumour immune microenvironment. These findings provide new insights into the role of m6A modifications in the immune response and tumour development, leading to the development of novel immunotherapies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute of Jiangsu University, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huirong Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xi Pu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute of Jiangsu University, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuting Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute of Jiangsu University, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao Yuan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute of Jiangsu University, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute of Jiangsu University, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hanqiang Lu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
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10
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Yang W, Zhao Y, Yang Y. Dynamic RNA methylation modifications and their regulatory role in mammalian development and diseases. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-023-2526-2. [PMID: 38833084 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-023-2526-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Among over 170 different types of chemical modifications on RNA nucleobases identified so far, RNA methylation is the major type of epitranscriptomic modifications existing on almost all types of RNAs, and has been demonstrated to participate in the entire process of RNA metabolism, including transcription, pre-mRNA alternative splicing and maturation, mRNA nucleus export, mRNA degradation and stabilization, mRNA translation. Attributing to the development of high-throughput detection technologies and the identification of both dynamic regulators and recognition proteins, mechanisms of RNA methylation modification in regulating the normal development of the organism as well as various disease occurrence and developmental abnormalities upon RNA methylation dysregulation have become increasingly clear. Here, we particularly focus on three types of RNA methylations: N6-methylcytosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), and N7-methyladenosine (m7G). We summarize the elements related to their dynamic installment and removal, specific binding proteins, and the development of high-throughput detection technologies. Then, for a comprehensive understanding of their biological significance, we also overview the latest knowledge on the underlying mechanisms and key roles of these three mRNA methylation modifications in gametogenesis, embryonic development, immune system development, as well as disease and tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation & Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory for Molecular Regulation of the Cell, School of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010020, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yongliang Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yungui Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, 100101, China.
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Sino-Danish College, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China.
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11
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Xiao S, Ma S, Sun B, Pu W, Duan S, Han J, Hong Y, Zhang J, Peng Y, He C, Yi P, Caligiuri MA, Yu J. The tumor-intrinsic role of the m 6A reader YTHDF2 in regulating immune evasion. Sci Immunol 2024; 9:eadl2171. [PMID: 38820140 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.adl2171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Tumors evade attacks from the immune system through various mechanisms. Here, we identify a component of tumor immune evasion mediated by YTH domain-containing family protein 2 (YTHDF2), a reader protein that usually destabilizes m6A-modified mRNA. Loss of tumoral YTHDF2 inhibits tumor growth and prolongs survival in immunocompetent tumor models. Mechanistically, tumoral YTHDF2 deficiency promotes the recruitment of macrophages via CX3CL1 and enhances mitochondrial respiration of CD8+ T cells by impairing tumor glycolysis metabolism. Tumoral YTHDF2 deficiency promotes inflammatory macrophage polarization and antigen presentation in the presence of IFN-γ. In addition, IFN-γ induces autophagic degradation of tumoral YTHDF2, thereby sensitizing tumor cells to CD8+ T cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Last, we identified a small molecule compound that preferentially induces YTHDF2 degradation, which shows a potent antitumor effect alone but a better effect when combined with anti-PD-L1 or anti-PD-1 antibodies. Collectively, YTHDF2 appears to be a tumor-intrinsic regulator that orchestrates immune evasion, representing a promising target for enhancing cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Xiao
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
| | - Shoubao Ma
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
| | - Baofa Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Wenchen Pu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Songqi Duan
- College of Food Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, China
| | - Jingjing Han
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
| | - Yaqun Hong
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
| | - Jianying Zhang
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
| | - Yong Peng
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuan He
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ping Yi
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Michael A Caligiuri
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
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12
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Yang S, Xu L, Zhuang H, Li F, Lu Y. A new perspective on hematological malignancies: m6A modification in immune microenvironment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1374390. [PMID: 38868768 PMCID: PMC11168112 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1374390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy for hematological malignancies is a rapidly advancing field that has gained momentum in recent years, primarily encompassing chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and other modalities. However, its clinical efficacy remains limited, and drug resistance poses a significant challenge. Therefore, novel immunotherapeutic targets and agents need to be identified. Recently, N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent RNA epitope modification, has emerged as a pivotal factor in various malignancies. Reportedly, m6A mutations influence the immunological microenvironment of hematological malignancies, leading to immune evasion and compromising the anti-tumor immune response in hematological malignancies. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the roles of the currently identified m6A modifications in various hematological malignancies, with a particular focus on their impact on the immune microenvironment. Additionally, we provide an overview of the research progress made in developing m6A-targeted drugs for hematological tumor therapy, to offer novel clinical insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyu Yang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Institute of Hematology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Liping Xu
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Institute of Hematology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Haihui Zhuang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Institute of Hematology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Fenglin Li
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Institute of Hematology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Ying Lu
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Institute of Hematology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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13
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Wu C, Li L, Tang Q, Liao Q, Chen P, Guo C, Zeng Z, Xiong W. Role of m 6A modifications in immune evasion and immunotherapy. Med Oncol 2024; 41:159. [PMID: 38761335 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02402-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
RNA modification has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its pivotal role in tumorigenesis and immune surveillance. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most prevalent RNA modification, which can affect the expression of RNA by methylating adenylate at the sixth N position to regulate the occurrence and development of tumors. Dysregulation of m6A affects the activation of cancer-promoting pathways, destroys immune cell function, maintains immunosuppressive microenvironment, and promotes tumor cell growth. In this review, we delve into the latest insights into how abnormalities in m6A modification in both tumor and immune cells orchestrate immune evasion through the activation of signaling pathways. Furthermore, we explore how dysregulated m6A modification in tumor cells influences immune cells, thereby regulating tumor immune evasion via interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Lastly, we highlight recent discoveries regarding specific inhibitors of m6A modulators and the encapsulation of m6A-targeting nanomaterials for cancer therapy, discussing their potential applications in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lvyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qianjin Liao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Pan Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Can Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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14
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Yuan T, Liu H, Abudoukadier M, Yang Z, Zhou Z, Cui Y. YTHDF2-Mediated m6A methylation inhibition by miR27a as a protective mechanism against hormonal osteonecrosis in BMSCs. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:359. [PMID: 38711079 PMCID: PMC11071322 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07481-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the increasing incidence of steroid-induced necrosis of the femoral head (SNFH), numerous scholars have investigated its pathogenesis. Current evidence suggests that the imbalance between lipogenesis and osteoblast differentiation in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) is a key pathological feature of SNFH. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have strong gene regulatory effects and can influence the direction of cell differentiation. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a prevalent epigenetic modification involved in diverse pathophysiological processes. However, knowledge of how miRNAs regulate m6A-related factors that affect BMSC differentiation is limited. OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate the role of miR27a in regulating the expression of YTHDF2 in BMSCs. METHODS We compared miR27a, YTHDF2, and total m6A mRNA levels in SNFH-affected and control BMSCs. CCK-8 and TUNEL assays were used to assess BMSC proliferation and apoptosis. Western blotting and qRT‒PCR were used to measure the expression of osteogenic (ALP, RUNX2, and OCN) and lipogenic (PPARγ and C/EBPα) markers. Alizarin Red and Oil Red O staining were used to quantify osteogenic and lipogenic differentiation, respectively. miR27a was knocked down or overexpressed to evaluate its impact on BMSC differentiation and its relationship with YTHDF2. Bioinformatics analyses identified YTHDF2 as a differentially expressed gene in SNFH (ROC analysis) and revealed potential signaling pathways through GSEA. The effects of YTHDF2 silencing on the lipogenic and osteogenic functions of BMSCs were assessed. RESULTS miR27a downregulation and YTHDF2 upregulation were observed in the SNFH BMSCs. miR27a knockdown/overexpression modulated YTHDF2 expression, impacting BMSC differentiation. miR27a silencing decreased m6A methylation and promoted osteogenic differentiation, while YTHDF2 silencing exerted similar effects. GSEA suggested potential signaling pathways associated with YTHDF2 in SNFH. CONCLUSION miR27a regulates BMSC differentiation through YTHDF2, affecting m6A methylation and promoting osteogenesis. This finding suggests a potential therapeutic target for SNFH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Yuan
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Hongjiang Liu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Maimaitiyibubaji Abudoukadier
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Zengqiang Yang
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Zhiheng Zhou
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Yong Cui
- Department of Orthopedic Center, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830011, China.
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15
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Li L, Xia X, Yang T, Sun Y, Liu X, Xu W, Lu M, Cui D, Wu Y. RNA methylation: A potential therapeutic target in autoimmune disease. Int Rev Immunol 2024; 43:160-177. [PMID: 37975549 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2023.2280544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are caused by the body's immune response to autoantigens. The pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases is unclear. Numerous studies have demonstrated that RNA methylation plays a key role in disease progression, which is essential for post-transcriptional regulation and has gradually become a broad regulatory mechanism that controls gene expression in various physiological processes, including RNA nuclear output, translation, splicing, and noncoding RNA processing. Here, we outline the writers, erasers, and readers of RNA methylation, including N6-methyladenosine (m6A), 2'-O-methylation (Nm), 2'-O-dimethyladenosine (m6Am), N1-methyladenosine (m1A), 5-methylcytidine (m5C) and N7-methylguanosine (m7G). As the role of RNA methylation modifications in the immune system and diseases is explained, the potential treatment value of these modifications has also been demonstrated. This review reports the relationship between RNA methylation and autoimmune diseases, highlighting the need for future research into the therapeutic potential of RNA modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lele Li
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Xiaoping Xia
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Tian Yang
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Yuchao Sun
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Xueke Liu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Wei Xu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Mei Lu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Dawei Cui
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingping Wu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
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16
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Zhao L, Guo J, Xu S, Duan M, Liu B, Zhao H, Wang Y, Liu H, Yang Z, Yuan H, Jiang X, Jiang X. Abnormal changes in metabolites caused by m 6A methylation modification: The leading factors that induce the formation of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and their promising potential for clinical application. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00159-0. [PMID: 38677545 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation modifications have been widely implicated in the metabolic reprogramming of various cell types within the tumor microenvironment (TME) and are essential for meeting the demands of cellular growth and maintaining tissue homeostasis, enabling cells to adapt to the specific conditions of the TME. An increasing number of research studies have focused on the role of m6A modifications in glucose, amino acid and lipid metabolism, revealing their capacity to induce aberrant changes in metabolite levels. These changes may in turn trigger oncogenic signaling pathways, leading to substantial alterations within the TME. Notably, certain metabolites, including lactate, succinate, fumarate, 2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG), glutamate, glutamine, methionine, S-adenosylmethionine, fatty acids and cholesterol, exhibit pronounced deviations from normal levels. These deviations not only foster tumorigenesis, proliferation and angiogenesis but also give rise to an immunosuppressive TME, thereby facilitating immune evasion by the tumor. AIM OF REVIEW The primary objective of this review is to comprehensively discuss the regulatory role of m6A modifications in the aforementioned metabolites and their potential impact on the development of an immunosuppressive TME through metabolic alterations. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW This review aims to elaborate on the intricate networks governed by the m6A-metabolite-TME axis and underscores its pivotal role in tumor progression. Furthermore, we delve into the potential implications of the m6A-metabolite-TME axis for the development of novel and targeted therapeutic strategies in cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China; Department of Colorectal Anal Surgery, Shenyang Coloproctology Hospital, Shenyang 110002, China.
| | - Junchen Guo
- Department of Radiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - Shasha Xu
- Department of Gastroendoscopy, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - Meiqi Duan
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - Baiming Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - He Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - Yihan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - Haiyang Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - Zhi Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
| | - Hexue Yuan
- Department of Colorectal Anal Surgery, Shenyang Coloproctology Hospital, Shenyang 110002, China.
| | - Xiaodi Jiang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110020, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
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17
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Liu WW, Zheng SQ, Li T, Fei YF, Wang C, Zhang S, Wang F, Jiang GM, Wang H. RNA modifications in cellular metabolism: implications for metabolism-targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:70. [PMID: 38531882 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01777-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular metabolism is an intricate network satisfying bioenergetic and biosynthesis requirements of cells. Relevant studies have been constantly making inroads in our understanding of pathophysiology, and inspiring development of therapeutics. As a crucial component of epigenetics at post-transcription level, RNA modification significantly determines RNA fates, further affecting various biological processes and cellular phenotypes. To be noted, immunometabolism defines the metabolic alterations occur on immune cells in different stages and immunological contexts. In this review, we characterize the distribution features, modifying mechanisms and biological functions of 8 RNA modifications, including N6-methyladenosine (m6A), N6,2'-O-dimethyladenosine (m6Am), N1-methyladenosine (m1A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), N4-acetylcytosine (ac4C), N7-methylguanosine (m7G), Pseudouridine (Ψ), adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) editing, which are relatively the most studied types. Then regulatory roles of these RNA modification on metabolism in diverse health and disease contexts are comprehensively described, categorized as glucose, lipid, amino acid, and mitochondrial metabolism. And we highlight the regulation of RNA modifications on immunometabolism, further influencing immune responses. Above all, we provide a thorough discussion about clinical implications of RNA modification in metabolism-targeted therapy and immunotherapy, progression of RNA modification-targeted agents, and its potential in RNA-targeted therapeutics. Eventually, we give legitimate perspectives for future researches in this field from methodological requirements, mechanistic insights, to therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wei Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Si-Qing Zheng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yun-Fei Fei
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Neurosurgical Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Guan-Min Jiang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China.
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Hefei, China.
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18
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Yoshinaga M, Takeuchi O. Regulation of inflammatory diseases via the control of mRNA decay. Inflamm Regen 2024; 44:14. [PMID: 38491500 PMCID: PMC10941436 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-024-00326-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammation orchestrates a finely balanced process crucial for microorganism elimination and tissue injury protection. A multitude of immune and non-immune cells, alongside various proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, collectively regulate this response. Central to this regulation is post-transcriptional control, governing gene expression at the mRNA level. RNA-binding proteins such as tristetraprolin, Roquin, and the Regnase family, along with RNA modifications, intricately dictate the mRNA decay of pivotal mediators and regulators in the inflammatory response. Dysregulated activity of these factors has been implicated in numerous human inflammatory diseases, underscoring the significance of post-transcriptional regulation. The increasing focus on targeting these mechanisms presents a promising therapeutic strategy for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. This review offers an extensive overview of post-transcriptional regulation mechanisms during inflammatory responses, delving into recent advancements, their implications in human diseases, and the strides made in therapeutic exploitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Yoshinaga
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
| | - Osamu Takeuchi
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
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19
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Hashemi M, Daneii P, Zandieh MA, Raesi R, Zahmatkesh N, Bayat M, Abuelrub A, Khazaei Koohpar Z, Aref AR, Zarrabi A, Rashidi M, Salimimoghadam S, Entezari M, Taheriazam A, Khorrami R. Non-coding RNA-Mediated N6-Methyladenosine (m 6A) deposition: A pivotal regulator of cancer, impacting key signaling pathways in carcinogenesis and therapy response. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:84-104. [PMID: 38075202 PMCID: PMC10700483 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of RNA modifications has recently been considered as critical post-transcriptional regulations which governed gene expression. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most abundant type of RNA modification which is mediated by three distinct classes of proteins called m6A writers, readers, and erasers. Accumulating evidence has been made in understanding the role of m6A modification of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in cancer. Importantly, aberrant expression of ncRNAs and m6A regulators has been elucidated in various cancers. As the key role of ncRNAs in regulation of cancer hallmarks is well accepted now, it could be accepted that m6A modification of ncRNAs could affect cancer progression. The present review intended to discuss the latest knowledge and importance of m6A epigenetic regulation of ncRNAs including mircoRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, and their interaction in the context of cancer. Moreover, the current insight into the underlying mechanisms of therapy resistance and also immune response and escape mediated by m6A regulators and ncRNAs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hashemi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pouria Daneii
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Arad Zandieh
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasoul Raesi
- Department of Health Services Management, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Neda Zahmatkesh
- Department of Genetics, Zanjan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mehrsa Bayat
- Department of Health Sciences, Bahcesehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Anwar Abuelrub
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Health Sciences Institute, Bahcesehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zeinab Khazaei Koohpar
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tonekabon Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon, Iran
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34396, Turkey
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shokooh Salimimoghadam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Maliheh Entezari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Khorrami
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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20
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Wei M, Lu L, Ma J, Luo Z, Tan X, Wang J. LINC00707 impairs the Natural Killer cell antitumour activity in hepatocellular carcinoma through decreasing YTHDF2 stability. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18106. [PMID: 38239038 PMCID: PMC10902566 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most frequently diagnosed cancer and ranks third in cancer-related fatalities. The recognized involvement of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in several cancer types, including HCC, inspired this study to explore a novel lncRNA's functional importance in the progression of HCC. To achieve this, lncRNA microarray analysis was conducted on three distinct sets of HCC tissues, revealing LINC00707 as the most significantly upregulated lncRNA. Further research into its biological functions has revealed that LINC00707 acts as an oncogene, driving HCC progression by enhancing the proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells. Mechanistic insights were provided, demonstrating that LINC00707 interacts with YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA-binding protein 2 (YTHDF2), thus facilitating the ubiquitination-dependent degradation of the YTHDF2 protein. Furthermore, LINC00707 was found to influence the cytotoxicity of NK-92MI cells against HCC cells through its interactions with YTHDF2. These findings significantly contribute to a deeper understanding of the role played by LINC00707 in the progression of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingwei Wei
- Department of General SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Baidong HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
- Guangxi Clinical Medical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseasesthe Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Libai Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Baidong HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Jiasheng Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Baidong HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Zongjiang Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Baidong HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Xijuan Tan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Baidong HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
| | - Jianchu Wang
- Department of General SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Baidong HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
- Guangxi Clinical Medical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseasesthe Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for NationalitiesBaiseChina
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21
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Sugiokto FG, Saiada F, Zhang K, Li R. SUMOylation of the m6A reader YTHDF2 by PIAS1 promotes viral RNA decay to restrict EBV replication. mBio 2024; 15:e0316823. [PMID: 38236021 PMCID: PMC10865817 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03168-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA-binding protein F2 (YTHDF2) is a member of the YTH protein family that binds to N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-modified RNA, regulating RNA stability and restricting viral replication, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). PIAS1 is an E3 small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) ligase known as an EBV restriction factor, but its role in YTHDF2 SUMOylation remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the functional regulation of YTHDF2 by PIAS1. We found that PIAS1 promotes the SUMOylation of YTHDF2 at three specific lysine residues (K281, K571, and K572). Importantly, PIAS1 synergizes with wild-type YTHDF2, but not a SUMOylation-deficient mutant, to limit EBV lytic replication. Mechanistically, YTHDF2 lacking SUMOylation exhibits reduced binding to EBV transcripts, leading to increased viral mRNA stability. Furthermore, PIAS1 mediates SUMOylation of YTHDF2's paralogs, YTHDF1 and YTHDF3, to restrict EBV replication. These results collectively uncover a unique mechanism whereby YTHDF family proteins control EBV replication through PIAS1-mediated SUMOylation, highlighting the significance of SUMOylation in regulating viral mRNA stability and EBV replication.IMPORTANCEm6A RNA modification pathway plays important roles in diverse cellular processes and viral life cycle. Here, we investigated the relationship between PIAS1 and the m6A reader protein YTHDF2, which is involved in regulating RNA stability by binding to m6A-modified RNA. We found that both the N-terminal and C-terminal regions of YTHDF2 interact with PIAS1. We showed that PIAS1 promotes the SUMOylation of YTHDF2 at three specific lysine residues. We also demonstrated that PIAS1 enhances the anti-EBV activity of YTHDF2. We further revealed that PIAS1 mediates the SUMOylation of other YTHDF family members, namely, YTHDF1 and YTHDF3, to limit EBV replication. These findings together illuminate an important regulatory mechanism of YTHDF proteins in controlling viral RNA decay and EBV replication through PIAS1-mediated SUMOylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Febri Gunawan Sugiokto
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Program in Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Farjana Saiada
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Kun Zhang
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Renfeng Li
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Program in Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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22
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Zhang H, Lin J, Yahaya BH. Comprehensive analysis of co-expressed genes with TDP-43: prognostic and therapeutic potential in lung adenocarcinoma. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:44. [PMID: 38281298 PMCID: PMC10822823 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05554-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transactivating DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) is intimately associated with tumorigenesis and progression by regulating mRNA splicing, transport, stability, and non-coding RNA molecules. The exact role of TDP-43 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) has not yet been fully elucidated, despite extensive research on its function in various cancer types. An imperative aspect of comprehending the underlying biological characteristics associated with TDP-43 involves investigating the genes that are co-expressed with this protein. This study assesses the prognostic significance of these co-expressed genes in LUAD and subsequently explores potential therapeutic strategies based on these findings. METHODS Transcriptomic and clinical data pertaining to LUAD were retrieved from open-access databases to establish an association between mRNA expression profiles and the presence of TDP-43. A risk-prognosis model was developed to compare patient survival rates across various groups, and its accuracy was also assessed. Additionally, differences in tumor stemness, mutational profiles, tumor microenvironment (TME) characteristics, immune checkpoints, and immune cell infiltration were analyzed in the different groups. Moreover, the study entailed predicting the potential response to immunotherapy as well as the sensitivity to commonly employed chemotherapeutic agents and targeted drugs for each distinct group. RESULTS The TDP-43 Co-expressed Gene Risk Score (TCGRS) model was constructed utilizing four genes: Kinesin Family Member 20A (KIF20A), WD Repeat Domain 4 (WDR4), Proline Rich 11 (PRR11), and Glia Maturation Factor Gamma (GMFG). The value of this model in predicting LUAD patient survival is effectively illustrated by both the Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survival curve and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC). The Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) revealed that the high TCGRS group was primarily enriched in biological pathways and functions linked to DNA replication and cell cycle; the low TCGRS group showed primary enrichment in immune-related pathways and functions. The high and low TCGRS groups showed differences in tumor stemness, mutational burden, TME, immune infiltration level, and immune checkpoints. The predictions analysis of immunotherapy indicates that the Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) score (p < 0.001) and non-response rate (74% vs. 51%, p < 0.001) in the high TCGRS group are higher than those in the low TCGRS group. The Immune Phenotype Score (IPS) in the high TCGRS group is lower than in the low TCGRS group (p < 0.001). The drug sensitivity analysis revealed that the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for cisplatin, docetaxel, doxorubicin, etoposide, gemcitabine, paclitaxel, vincristine, erlotinib, and gefitinib (all p < 0.01) in the high TCGRS group are lower than those in the low TCGRS group. CONCLUSIONS The TCGRS derived from the model exhibits a reliable biomarker for evaluating both prognosis and treatment effectiveness among patients with LUAD. This study is anticipated to offer valuable insights into developing effective treatment strategies for this patient population. It is believed that this study is anticipated to contribute significantly to clinical diagnostics, the development of therapeutic drugs, and the enhancement of patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Lung Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Group (LSCGT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (IPPT), Universiti Sains Malaysia, SAINS@Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Juntang Lin
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Stem Cell Medicine, School of Medical Engineering, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Badrul Hisham Yahaya
- Lung Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Group (LSCGT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (IPPT), Universiti Sains Malaysia, SAINS@Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia.
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23
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Wang J, Peng J, Chen Y, Nasser MI, Qin H. The role of stromal cells in epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity and its therapeutic potential. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:13. [PMID: 38244071 PMCID: PMC10799841 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-00867-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical tumor invasion and metastasis process. EMT enables tumor cells to migrate, detach from their original location, enter the circulation, circulate within it, and eventually exit from blood arteries to colonize in foreign sites, leading to the development of overt metastases, ultimately resulting in death. EMT is intimately tied to stromal cells around the tumor and is controlled by a range of cytokines secreted by stromal cells. This review summarizes recent research on stromal cell-mediated EMT in tumor invasion and metastasis. We also discuss the effects of various stromal cells on EMT induction and focus on the molecular mechanisms by which several significant stromal cells convert from foes to friends of cancer cells to fuel EMT processes via their secretions in the tumor microenvironment (TME). As a result, a better knowledge of the role of stromal cells in cancer cells' EMT may pave the path to cancer eradication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanjing Wang
- Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Junmei Peng
- Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonglin Chen
- Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
- The Hengyang Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Ecological Environment and Critical Human Diseases Prevention of Hunan Province Department of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - M I Nasser
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510100, Guangdong, China.
| | - Hui Qin
- Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China.
- The Hengyang Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Ecological Environment and Critical Human Diseases Prevention of Hunan Province Department of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China.
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24
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Aufgebauer CJ, Bland KM, Horner SM. Modifying the antiviral innate immune response by selective writing, erasing, and reading of m 6A on viral and cellular RNA. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:100-109. [PMID: 38176419 PMCID: PMC10872403 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Viral infection and the antiviral innate immune response are regulated by the RNA modification m6A. m6A directs nearly all aspects of RNA metabolism by recruiting RNA-binding proteins that mediate the fate of m6A-containing RNA. m6A controls the antiviral innate immune response in diverse ways, including shielding viral RNA from detection by antiviral sensors and influencing the expression of cellular mRNAs encoding antiviral signaling proteins, cytokines, and effector proteins. While m6A and the m6A machinery are important for the antiviral response, the precise mechanisms that determine how the m6A machinery selects specific viral or cellular RNA molecules for modification during infection are not fully understood. In this review, we highlight recent findings that shed light on how viral infection redirects the m6A machinery during the antiviral response. A better understanding of m6A targeting during viral infection could lead to new immunomodulatory and therapeutic strategies against viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline J Aufgebauer
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Katherine M Bland
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Stacy M Horner
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Department of Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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25
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Guo W, Wang Z, Zhang Y, Li Y, Du Q, Zhang T, Hu J, Yao Y, Zhang J, Xu Y, Cui X, Sun Z, You M, Yu G, Zhang H, Du X, Xu J, Yu S. Mettl3-dependent m 6A modification is essential for effector differentiation and memory formation of CD8 + T cells. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2024; 69:82-96. [PMID: 38030520 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2023.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Efficient immune responses rely on the proper differentiation of CD8+ T cells into effector and memory cells. Here, we show a critical requirement of N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase Mettl3 during CD8+ T cell responses upon acute viral infection. Conditional deletion of Mettl3 in CD8+ T cells impairs effector expansion and terminal differentiation in an m6A-dependent manner, subsequently affecting memory formation and the secondary response of CD8+ T cells. Our combined RNA-seq and m6A-miCLIP-seq analyses reveal that Mettl3 deficiency broadly impacts the expression of cell cycle and transcriptional regulators. Remarkably, Mettl3 binds to the Tbx21 transcript and stabilizes it, promoting effector differentiation of CD8+ T cells. Moreover, ectopic expression of T-bet partially restores the defects in CD8+ T cell differentiation in the absence of Mettl3. Thus, our study highlights the role of Mettl3 in regulating multiple target genes in an m6A-dependent manner and underscores the importance of m6A modification during CD8+ T cell response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yajiao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yashu Li
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Qian Du
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regeneration Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Tiantian Zhang
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jin Hu
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yingpeng Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jiarui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yingdi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xiao Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhen Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Menghao You
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Guotao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Haojian Zhang
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xuguang Du
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Jingyu Xu
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regeneration Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China.
| | - Shuyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regeneration Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China.
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26
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Zhang Z, Zhou K, Han L, Small A, Xue J, Huang H, Weng H, Su R, Tan B, Shen C, Li W, Zhao Z, Qing Y, Qin X, Wang K, Leung K, Boldin M, Chen CW, Ann D, Qian Z, Deng X, Chen J, Chen Z. RNA m 6A reader YTHDF2 facilitates precursor miR-126 maturation to promote acute myeloid leukemia progression. Genes Dis 2024; 11:382-396. [PMID: 37588203 PMCID: PMC10425806 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
As the most common internal modification of mRNA, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and its regulators modulate gene expression and play critical roles in various biological and pathological processes including tumorigenesis. It was reported previously that m6A methyltransferase (writer), methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) adds m6A in primary microRNAs (pri-miRNAs) and facilitates its processing into precursor miRNAs (pre-miRNAs). However, it is unknown whether m6A modification also plays a role in the maturation process of pre-miRNAs and (if so) whether such a function contributes to tumorigenesis. Here, we found that YTHDF2 is aberrantly overexpressed in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients, especially in relapsed patients, and plays an oncogenic role in AML. Moreover, YTHDF2 promotes expression of miR-126-3p (also known as miR-126, as it is the main product of precursor miR-126 (pre-miR-126)), a miRNA that was reported as an oncomiRNA in AML, through facilitating the processing of pre-miR-126 into mature miR-126. Mechanistically, YTHDF2 recognizes m6A modification in pre-miR-126 and recruits AGO2, a regulator of pre-miRNA processing, to promote the maturation of pre-miR-126. YTHDF2 positively and negatively correlates with miR-126 and miR-126's downstream target genes, respectively, in AML patients, and forced expression of miR-126 could largely rescue YTHDF2/Ythdf2 depletion-mediated suppression on AML cell growth/proliferation and leukemogenesis, indicating that miR-126 is a functionally important target of YTHDF2 in AML. Overall, our studies not only reveal a previously unappreciated YTHDF2/miR-126 axis in AML and highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting this axis for AML treatment, but also suggest that m6A plays a role in pre-miRNA processing that contributes to tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhang
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
- Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Keren Zhou
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Li Han
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
| | - Andrew Small
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Jianhuang Xue
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
- Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Huilin Huang
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060, China
| | - Hengyou Weng
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510005, China
- Bioland Laboratory, Guangzhou, Guangdong 51005, China
| | - Rui Su
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Brandon Tan
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Chao Shen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Zhicong Zhao
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
- Department of Liver Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Ying Qing
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Xi Qin
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
- Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Kitty Wang
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Keith Leung
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Mark Boldin
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Chun-Wei Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - David Ann
- Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Zhijian Qian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA
| | - Xiaolan Deng
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Zhenhua Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
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Yoshinaga M, Takeuchi O. RNA Metabolism Governs Immune Function and Response. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1444:145-161. [PMID: 38467978 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-9781-7_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Inflammation is a complex process that protects our body from various insults such as infection, injury, and stress. Proper inflammation is beneficial to eliminate the insults and maintain organ homeostasis, however, it can become detrimental if uncontrolled. To tightly regulate inflammation, post-transcriptional mechanisms governing RNA metabolism play a crucial role in monitoring the expression of immune-related genes, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). These mechanisms involve the coordinated action of various RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), including the Regnase family, Roquin, and RNA methyltransferases, which are responsible for mRNA decay and/or translation regulation. The collaborative efforts of these RBPs are essential in preventing aberrant immune response activation and consequently safeguarding against inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. This review provides an overview of recent advancements in our understanding of post-transcriptional regulation within the immune system and explores the specific roles of individual RBPs in RNA metabolism and regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Yoshinaga
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Osamu Takeuchi
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
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28
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Gu J, Cao H, Chen X, Zhang XD, Thorne RF, Liu X. RNA m6A modifications regulate crosstalk between tumor metabolism and immunity. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1829. [PMID: 38114887 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, m6A modifications in RNA transcripts have arisen as a hot topic in cancer research. Indeed, a number of independent studies have elaborated that the m6A modification impacts the behavior of tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells, altering tumor cell metabolism along with the differentiation and functional activity of immune cells. This review elaborates on the links between RNA m6A modifications, tumor cell metabolism, and immune cell behavior, discussing this topic from the viewpoint of reciprocal regulation through "RNA m6A-tumor cell metabolism-immune cell behavior" and "RNA m6A-immune cell behavior-tumor cell metabolism" axes. In addition, we discuss the various factors affecting RNA m6A modifications in the tumor microenvironment, particularly the effects of hypoxia associated with cancer cell metabolism along with immune cell-secreted cytokines. Our analysis proposes the conclusion that RNA m6A modifications support widespread interactions between tumor metabolism and tumor immunity. With the current viewpoint that long-term cancer control must tackle cancer cell malignant behavior while strengthening anti-tumor immunity, the recognition of RNA m6A modifications as a key factor provides a new direction for the targeted therapy of tumors. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghua Gu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Huake Cao
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoli Chen
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
| | - Xu Dong Zhang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rick F Thorne
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Xiaoying Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
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Wang A, Huang H, Shi JH, Yu X, Ding R, Zhang Y, Han Q, Ni ZY, Li X, Zhao R, Zou Q. USP47 inhibits m6A-dependent c-Myc translation to maintain regulatory T cell metabolic and functional homeostasis. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e169365. [PMID: 37788092 PMCID: PMC10688989 DOI: 10.1172/jci169365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The functional integrity of Tregs is interwoven with cellular metabolism; however, the mechanisms governing Treg metabolic programs remain elusive. Here, we identified that the deubiquitinase USP47 inhibited c-Myc translation mediated by the RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) reader YTHDF1 to maintain Treg metabolic and functional homeostasis. USP47 positively correlated with the tumor-infiltrating Treg signature in samples from patients with colorectal cancer and gastric cancer. USP47 ablation compromised Treg homeostasis and function in vivo, resulting in the development of inflammatory disorders, and boosted antitumor immune responses. USP47 deficiency in Tregs triggered the accumulation of the c-Myc protein and in turn exacerbated hyperglycolysis. Mechanistically, USP47 prevented YTHDF1 ubiquitination to attenuate the association of YTHDF1 with translation initiation machinery, thereby decreasing m6A-based c-Myc translation efficiency. Our findings reveal that USP47 directs m6A-dependent metabolic programs to orchestrate Treg homeostasis and suggest novel approaches for selective immune modulation in cancer and autoimmune diseases by targeting of USP47.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiting Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, and
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Center for Cancer Immunology, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Haiyan Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, and
| | - Jian-Hong Shi
- Central Laboratory, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center of Tumor Microecological Metabolism Regulation, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xiaoyan Yu
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Ding
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuerong Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiaoqiao Han
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi-Yu Ni
- Central Laboratory, Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center of Tumor Microecological Metabolism Regulation, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xia Li
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ren Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, and
| | - Qiang Zou
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Alles M, Gunasena M, Kettelhut A, Ailstock K, Musiime V, Kityo C, Richardson B, Mulhern W, Tamilselvan B, Rubsamen M, Kasturiratna D, Demberg T, Cameron CM, Cameron MJ, Dirajlal-Fargo S, Funderburg NT, Liyanage NPM. Activated NK Cells with Pro-inflammatory Features are Associated with Atherogenesis in Perinatally HIV-Acquired Adolescents. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.11.06.23297580. [PMID: 37986784 PMCID: PMC10659511 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.06.23297580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is associated with persistent immune activation and dysfunction in people with HIV despite treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART). Modulation of the immune system may be driven by: low-level HIV replication, co-pathogens, gut dysbiosis /translocation, altered lipid profiles, and ART toxicities. In addition, perinatally acquired HIV (PHIV) and lifelong ART may alter the development and function of the immune system. Our preliminary data and published literature suggest reprogramming innate immune cells may accelerate aging and increase the risk for future end-organ complications, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). The exact mechanisms, however, are currently unknown. Natural killer (NK) cells are a highly heterogeneous cell population with divergent functions. They play a critical role in HIV transmission and disease progression in adults. Recent studies suggest the important role of NK cells in CVDs; however, little is known about NK cells and their role in HIV-associated cardiovascular risk in PHIV adolescents. Here, we investigated NK cell subsets and their potential role in atherogenesis in PHIV adolescents compared to HIV-negative adolescents in Uganda. Our data suggest, for the first time, that activated NK subsets in PHIV adolescents may contribute to atherogenesis by promoting plasma oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) uptake by vascular macrophages.
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Teng Y, Yi J, Chen J, Yang L. N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) Modification in Natural Immune Cell-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases. J Innate Immun 2023; 15:804-821. [PMID: 37903470 PMCID: PMC10673353 DOI: 10.1159/000534162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The post-transcriptional N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification of RNA influences stability, transport, and translation with implications for various physiological and pathological processes. Immune cell development, differentiation, and activation are also thought to be regulated by m6A and affect host defense against pathogens and inflammatory response with impacts on infectious, neoplastic, autoimmune, cardiovascular, hepatic, and osteal diseases. The current review summarizes recent research on m6A in monocyte/macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, natural killer cells, and microglia and gives insights into epigenetic modifications of the immune system and novel therapeutic strategies for immune-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Teng
- Institute of Neurology, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Yi
- Center for Informational Biology, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Junnian Chen
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Institute of Neurology, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
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Xu Y, He Z, Du J, Chen Z, Creemers JWM, Wang B, Li F, Wang Y. Epigenetic modulations of immune cells: from normal development to tumor progression. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:5120-5144. [PMID: 37928272 PMCID: PMC10620821 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.88327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The dysfunction of immune cell development often impairs immunological homeostasis, thus causing various human diseases. Accumulating evidence shows that the development of different immune cells from hematopoietic stem cells are highly fine-tuned by different epigenetic mechanisms including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling and RNA-related regulations. Understanding how epigenetic regulators modulate normal development of immune cells contributes to the identification of new strategies for various diseases. Here, we review recent advances suggesting that epigenetic modulations can orchestrate immune cell development and functions through their impact on critical gene expression. We also discuss the aberrations of epigenetic modulations in immune cells that influence tumor progression, and the fact that underlying mechanisms affect how epigenetic drugs interfere with tumor progression in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanchun Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of nursing, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zongsheng He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Du
- Department of General Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ziqiang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | | | - Bin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fan Li
- Department of General Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yaling Wang
- Department of nursing, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Luo Z, Cheng J, Wang Y. m6A regulator-mediated RNA methylation modification remodels immune microenvironment in dilated cardiomyopathy. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:2282-2292. [PMID: 37475583 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The latest evidence suggested that the onset of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is closely associated with immune microenvironment disturbance. Since N6 -methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation impacts on immunocyte function and antitumor immunity, it is predictable that m6A RNA methylation may result in immune microenvironment disorder. Here, we attempted to verify this hypothesis. We used single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) to investigate the infiltration abundance of immunocytes, single-cell RNA-Seq to identify key m6A regulator, and a doxorubicin (Dox)-induced DCM mouse model to confirm our findings. ssGSEA revealed a higher infiltration abundance of CD8+ T lymphocytes, NK cells, monocytes, and B+ lymphocytes in DCM myocardium tissue. Single-cell RNA-Seq indicated a critical role of IGFBP2 in DCM. Cross-checking analysis hinted an interaction between IGFBP2 and NSUN5, ALYREF, RRP8, and ALKBH3. Mechanically, IGFBP2-mediated RNA methylation deteriorated the immune microenvironment and thus increased the risk of DCM by enhancing CD8+ T lymphocyte, NK cell, monocyte, B+ lymphocyte infiltration and activating check-point, MHC-I, and T cell co-stimulation signaling pathways. In the DCM mouse model, echocardiography indicated a significant reduction in ejection fraction (EF) and fractional shortening (FS) and an increase in left ventricular internal dimensions at systole (LVIDs) and diastole (LVIDd). MASSON staining indicated an increased fibrosis in myocardium tissue. qPCR and immunofluorescence staining indicated a significant increase in mRNA and protein levels of IGFBP2. The present study indicated that IGFBP2-mediated RNA methylation remodeled the immune microenvironment and increased the risk of DCM. IGFBP2 may serve as potential therapeutic target for DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Luo
- Department of Geriatrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Cheng
- Department of Geriatrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanggan Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Medical Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Dexheimer PJ, Pujato M, Roskin KM, Weirauch MT. VExD: a curated resource for human gene expression alterations following viral infection. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2023; 13:jkad176. [PMID: 37531635 PMCID: PMC10542171 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkad176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Much of the host antiviral response is mediated through changes to host gene expression levels. Likewise, viruses induce changes to host gene expression levels in order to promote the viral life cycle and evade the host immune system. However, there is no resource that specifically collects human gene expression levels pre- and post-virus infection. Further, public gene expression repositories do not contain enough specialized metadata to easily find relevant experiments. Here, we present the Virus Expression Database (VExD), a freely available website and database, that collects human gene expression datasets in response to viral infection. VExD contains ∼8,000 uniformly processed samples obtained from 289 studies examining 51 distinct human viruses. We show that the VExD processing pipeline captures known antiviral responses in the form of interferon-stimulated genes. We further show that the datasets collected in VExD can be used to quickly identify supporting data for experiments performed in human cells or model organisms. VExD is freely available at https://vexd.cchmc.org/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip J Dexheimer
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
| | - Mario Pujato
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Krishna M Roskin
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
| | - Matthew T Weirauch
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
- Center for Autoimmune Genomics and Etiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Divisions of Human Genetics, Biomedical Informatics and Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
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Xu H, Lin X, Li Z, He X, Li Y, Qiu L, Lu L, Liu B, Zhan M, He K. VIRMA facilitates intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma progression through epigenetic augmentation of TMED2 and PARD3B mRNA stabilization. J Gastroenterol 2023; 58:925-944. [PMID: 37391589 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-023-02015-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND N6-methyladenine modification of RNA, a critical component of the regulatory role at the post-transcriptional level, has a crucial effect on tumor development and progression. vir-Like m6A methyltransferase associated (VIRMA) has been recently discovered as an N6-methyladenine methyltransferase; however, its specific role in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) remains to be investigated in-depth. METHODS VIRMA expression and its association with clinicopathological characteristics were evaluated using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset and tissue microarrays. In vivo and in vitro assays were performed to determine the role of VIRMA in ICC proliferation and metastasis. The underlying mechanism by which VIRMA influences ICC was clarified by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq), SLAM sequencing (SLAM-seq), RNA immunoprecipitation, a luciferase reporter assay, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. RESULTS VIRMA showed high expression in ICC tissues, and this finding predicted a dismal prognostic outcome. The high expression of VIRMA in ICC was due to the demethylation of H3K27me3 modification in the promoter region. Functionally, VIRMA is required for the endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in ICC cells, as shown by multiple ICC models in in vitro and in vivo experiments. Mechanistically, multi-omics analysis using ICC cells demonstrated that TMED2 and PARD3B were the direct downstream target of VIRMA. The methylated TMED2 and PARD3B transcripts were directly recognized by HuR, which exerted stabilizing effects on its bound RNA. VIRMA-induced expression of TMED2 and PARD3B activated the Akt/GSK/β-catenin and MEK/ERK/Slug signaling pathways, thereby promoting ICC proliferation and metastasis. CONCLUSIONS The present study showed that VIRMA plays a critical role in ICC development by stabilizing TMED2 and PARD3B expression through the m6A-HuR-mediated mechanism. Thus, demonstrating VIRMA and its pathway as candidate therapeutic targets for ICC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongfa Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
- Oncology Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaowen Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhongliang Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
| | - Xu He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
| | - Yong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
| | - Lige Qiu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China
| | - Meixiao Zhan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, 519000, Guangdong, China.
| | - Ke He
- Minimally Invasive Tumor Therapies Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510310, Guangdong, China.
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Hu J, Xue C, Wang Q. N 6-methyladenosine modification: an important player in the tumor immune microenvironment. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115171. [PMID: 37494788 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The decoration of RNA with N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a reversible post-transcriptional modification that plays an important regulatory role in all eukaryotic life activities. The m6A modification of RNA regulates the development and progression of tumors, including bladder cancer, melanoma, Lewis lung carcinoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) includes immune cells, cytokines, and cell surface molecules, which interact with each other and ultimately determine the flow of tumor immunity. The onset of cancer implies that the TIME has been reshaped into a pro-tumor state. The key to cancer treatment lies in reshaping the TIME to reset the anti-tumor immune response. Here, we have reviewed how RNA m6A modification affects the TIME, and discussed the merits of using m6A regulator inhibitors as an individual treatment strategy as well as in combination with immune checkpoint blockade therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxiang Hu
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China; The Key Laboratory for Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Chen Xue
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingqing Wang
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China; The Key Laboratory for Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Liu R, Zhao E, Yu H, Yuan C, Abbas MN, Cui H. Methylation across the central dogma in health and diseases: new therapeutic strategies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:310. [PMID: 37620312 PMCID: PMC10449936 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01528-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The proper transfer of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein is essential for cell-fate control, development, and health. Methylation of DNA, RNAs, histones, and non-histone proteins is a reversible post-synthesis modification that finetunes gene expression and function in diverse physiological processes. Aberrant methylation caused by genetic mutations or environmental stimuli promotes various diseases and accelerates aging, necessitating the development of therapies to correct the disease-driver methylation imbalance. In this Review, we summarize the operating system of methylation across the central dogma, which includes writers, erasers, readers, and reader-independent outputs. We then discuss how dysregulation of the system contributes to neurological disorders, cancer, and aging. Current small-molecule compounds that target the modifiers show modest success in certain cancers. The methylome-wide action and lack of specificity lead to undesirable biological effects and cytotoxicity, limiting their therapeutic application, especially for diseases with a monogenic cause or different directions of methylation changes. Emerging tools capable of site-specific methylation manipulation hold great promise to solve this dilemma. With the refinement of delivery vehicles, these new tools are well positioned to advance the basic research and clinical translation of the methylation field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruochen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Erhu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Huijuan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Chaoyu Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Muhammad Nadeem Abbas
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China.
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China.
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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Sugiokto FG, Saiada F, Zhang K, Li R. SUMOylation of the m6A reader YTHDF2 by PIAS1 promotes viral RNA decay to restrict EBV replication. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.08.552509. [PMID: 37609256 PMCID: PMC10441406 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.08.552509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
YTHDF2 is a member of the YTH protein family that binds to N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-modified RNA, regulating RNA stability and restricting viral replication, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). PIAS1 is an E3 SUMO ligase known as an EBV restriction factor, but its role in YTHDF2 SUMOylation remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the functional regulation of YTHDF2 by PIAS1. We found that PIAS1 promotes the SUMOylation of YTHDF2 at three specific lysine residues (K281, K571, and K572). Importantly, PIAS1 enhances the antiviral activity of YTHDF2, and SUMOylation-deficient YTHDF2 shows reduced anti-EBV activity. Mechanistically, YTHDF2 lacking SUMOylation exhibits reduced binding to EBV transcripts, leading to increased viral mRNA stability. Furthermore, PIAS1 mediates SUMOylation of YTHDF2's paralogs, YTHDF1 and YTHDF3. These results collectively uncover a unique mechanism whereby YTHDF2 controls EBV replication through PIAS1-mediated SUMOylation, highlighting the significance of SUMOylation in regulating viral mRNA stability and EBV replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Febri Gunawan Sugiokto
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 23298, USA
- Program in Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
| | - Farjana Saiada
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 23298, USA
| | - Kun Zhang
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 23298, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
| | - Renfeng Li
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 23298, USA
- Program in Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 23298, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 23298, USA
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, 23298, USA
- Cancer Virology Program, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
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Chen G, Ren D, Wang Y, Wang H, Zhang J, Yang S. YTHDF2 negatively correlates with tumor immune infiltration in small cell lung cancer. J Mol Histol 2023; 54:365-377. [PMID: 37357252 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-023-10129-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
In recent times, RNA modifications have garnered increased attention due to their involvement in the onset and progression of tumors, with N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification being the most prevalent form. YTHDF2 is an m6A reading protein that can modulate RNA stability, transcription, and translation. This study aimed to explore the role of YTHDF2 in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) by collecting 20 SCLC patients from our hospital (cohort 1) and 48 Chinese SCLC patients from the GEO database (cohort 2). We evaluated the prognostic value of YTHDF2 using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, Log-rank test, and Cox regression analysis. Additionally, we employed Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) to screen different signaling pathways. We also investigated the correlation between the expression of m6A-related genes and SCLC molecular subtype and tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Furthermore, we utilized multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) staining to validate the immune infiltration of SCLC patient tissue sections. Our study revealed that YTHDF2 is an independent prognostic factor, which high expression is associated with low overall survival rate in SCLC. Low expression of YTHDF2 in SCLC tumors may enhance the molecular subtype transition from neuroendocrine (NE) to non-neuroendocrine (non-NE) subtype. Low YTHDF2 expression was closely associated with high immune infiltration, immune checkpoints, and other immune-related molecular features. Additionally, mIF detection showed a correlation between the low expression of YTHDF2 and CD4 + T cells and CD8 + T cells. Taken together, YTHDF2 could serve as a potential prognostic biomarker negatively correlated with tumor immune infiltration in SCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Chen
- Department of Esophageal Mediastinal and Lymphatic Oncology (Chemoradiotherapy), Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Dandan Ren
- Genecast Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Wuxi, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Yuanhan Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, P.R. China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, P.R. China
| | - Junhong Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China.
| | - Song Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, P.R. China.
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40
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Deng X, Qing Y, Horne D, Huang H, Chen J. The roles and implications of RNA m 6A modification in cancer. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2023; 20:507-526. [PMID: 37221357 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00774-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
N6-Methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent internal modification in eukaryotic mRNA, has been extensively and increasingly studied over the past decade. Dysregulation of RNA m6A modification and its associated machinery, including writers, erasers and readers, is frequently observed in various cancer types, and the dysregulation profiles might serve as diagnostic, prognostic and/or predictive biomarkers. Dysregulated m6A modifiers have been shown to function as oncoproteins or tumour suppressors with essential roles in cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, metabolism, therapy resistance and immune evasion as well as in cancer stem cell self-renewal and the tumour microenvironment, highlighting the therapeutic potential of targeting the dysregulated m6A machinery for cancer treatment. In this Review, we discuss the mechanisms by which m6A modifiers determine the fate of target RNAs and thereby influence protein expression, molecular pathways and cell phenotypes. We also describe the state-of-the-art methodologies for mapping global m6A epitranscriptomes in cancer. We further summarize discoveries regarding the dysregulation of m6A modifiers and modifications in cancer, their pathological roles, and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Finally, we discuss m6A-related prognostic and predictive molecular biomarkers in cancer as well as the development of small-molecule inhibitors targeting oncogenic m6A modifiers and their activity in preclinical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolan Deng
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, USA.
| | - Ying Qing
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, USA
| | - David Horne
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Huilin Huang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, USA.
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA.
- Gehr Family Center for Leukemia Research & City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA.
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41
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Zhang L, Dou X, Zheng Z, Ye C, Lu TX, Liang HL, Wang L, Weichselbaum RR, He C. YTHDF2/m 6 A/NF-κB axis controls anti-tumor immunity by regulating intratumoral Tregs. EMBO J 2023; 42:e113126. [PMID: 37345898 PMCID: PMC10390869 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2022113126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A) in messenger RNA (mRNA) regulates immune cells in homeostasis and in response to infection and inflammation. The function of the m6 A reader YTHDF2 in the tumor microenvironment (TME) in these contexts has not been explored. We discovered that the loss of YTHDF2 in regulatory T (Treg) cells reduces tumor growth in mice. Deletion of Ythdf2 in Tregs does not affect peripheral immune homeostasis but leads to increased apoptosis and impaired suppressive function of Treg cells in the TME. Elevated tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling in the TME promotes YTHDF2 expression, which in turn regulates NF-κB signaling by accelerating the degradation of m6 A-modified transcripts that encode NF-κB-negative regulators. This TME-specific regulation of Treg by YTHDF2 points to YTHDF2 as a potential target for anti-cancer immunotherapy, where intratumoral Treg cells can be targeted to enhance anti-tumor immune response while avoiding Treg cells in the periphery to minimize undesired inflammations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Zhang
- Department of ChemistryThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Institute for Biophysical DynamicsThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Howard Hughes Medical InstituteUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
| | - Xiaoyang Dou
- Department of ChemistryThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Institute for Biophysical DynamicsThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Howard Hughes Medical InstituteUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
| | - Zhong Zheng
- Department of ChemistryThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Institute for Biophysical DynamicsThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Howard Hughes Medical InstituteUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
| | - Chang Ye
- Department of ChemistryThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Institute for Biophysical DynamicsThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Howard Hughes Medical InstituteUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
| | - Thomas X Lu
- Department of ChemistryThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Institute for Biophysical DynamicsThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Present address:
Southern Indiana PhysiciansIndiana University HealthBloomingtonINUSA
| | - Hua L Liang
- Department of Radiation and Cellular OncologyUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Ludwig Center for Metastasis ResearchUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
| | - Liangliang Wang
- Department of Radiation and Cellular OncologyUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Ludwig Center for Metastasis ResearchUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
| | - Ralph R Weichselbaum
- Department of Radiation and Cellular OncologyUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Ludwig Center for Metastasis ResearchUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
| | - Chuan He
- Department of ChemistryThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Institute for Biophysical DynamicsThe University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- Howard Hughes Medical InstituteUniversity of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
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42
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Kong Y, Yu J, Ge S, Fan X. Novel insight into RNA modifications in tumor immunity: Promising targets to prevent tumor immune escape. Innovation (N Y) 2023; 4:100452. [PMID: 37485079 PMCID: PMC10362524 DOI: 10.1016/j.xinn.2023.100452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
An immunosuppressive state is a typical feature of the tumor microenvironment. Despite the dramatic success of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in preventing tumor cell escape from immune surveillance, primary and acquired resistance have limited its clinical use. Notably, recent clinical trials have shown that epigenetic drugs can significantly improve the outcome of ICI therapy in various cancers, indicating the importance of epigenetic modifications in immune regulation of tumors. Recently, RNA modifications (N6-methyladenosine [m6A], N1-methyladenosine [m1A], 5-methylcytosine [m5C], etc.), novel hotspot areas of epigenetic research, have been shown to play crucial roles in protumor and antitumor immunity. In this review, we provide a comprehensive understanding of how m6A, m1A, and m5C function in tumor immunity by directly regulating different immune cells as well as indirectly regulating tumor cells through different mechanisms, including modulating the expression of immune checkpoints, inducing metabolic reprogramming, and affecting the secretion of immune-related factors. Finally, we discuss the current status of strategies targeting RNA modifications to prevent tumor immune escape, highlighting their potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Xianqun Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
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43
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You M, Liu J, Li J, Ji C, Ni H, Guo W, Zhang J, Jia W, Wang Z, Zhang Y, Yao Y, Yu G, Ji H, Wang X, Han D, Du X, Xu MM, Yu S. Mettl3-m 6A-Creb1 forms an intrinsic regulatory axis in maintaining iNKT cell pool and functional differentiation. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112584. [PMID: 37267102 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase Mettl3 is involved in conventional T cell immunity; however, its role in innate immune cells remains largely unknown. Here, we show that Mettl3 intrinsically regulates invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell development and function in an m6A-dependent manner. Conditional ablation of Mettl3 in CD4+CD8+ double-positive (DP) thymocytes impairs iNKT cell proliferation, differentiation, and cytokine secretion, which synergistically causes defects in B16F10 melanoma resistance. Transcriptomic and epi-transcriptomic analyses reveal that Mettl3 deficiency disturbs the expression of iNKT cell-related genes with altered m6A modification. Strikingly, Mettl3 modulates the stability of the Creb1 transcript, which in turn controls the protein and phosphorylation levels of Creb1. Furthermore, conditional targeting of Creb1 in DP thymocytes results in similar phenotypes of iNKT cells lacking Mettl3. Importantly, ectopic expression of Creb1 largely rectifies such developmental defects in Mettl3-deficient iNKT cells. These findings reveal that the Mettl3-m6A-Creb1 axis plays critical roles in regulating iNKT cells at the post-transcriptional layer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghao You
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jie Li
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, and China National Center for Bioinformation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Institute for Immunology, Beijing Key Lab for Immunological Research on Chronic Diseases, THU-PKU Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ce Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Haochen Ni
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, and China National Center for Bioinformation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Wenhui Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jiarui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Weiwei Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yajiao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yingpeng Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Guotao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Huanyu Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xiaohu Wang
- Institute for Immunology and School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Dali Han
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, and China National Center for Bioinformation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xuguang Du
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Meng Michelle Xu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Institute for Immunology, Beijing Key Lab for Immunological Research on Chronic Diseases, THU-PKU Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Shuyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
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44
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Li C, Zhu M, Wang J, Wu H, Liu Y, Huang D. Role of m6A modification in immune microenvironment of digestive system tumors. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 164:114953. [PMID: 37269812 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Digestive system tumors are huge health problem worldwide, largely attributable to poor dietary choices. The role of RNA modifications in cancer development is an emerging field of research. RNA modifications are associated with the growth and development of various immune cells, which, in turn, regulate the immune response. The majority of RNA modifications are methylation modifications, and the most common type is the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification. Here, we reviewed the molecular mechanism of m6A in the immune cells and the role of m6A in the digestive system tumors. However, further studies are required to better understand the role of RNA methylation in human cancers for designing diagnostic and treatment strategies and predicting the prognosis of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Li
- Department of Child Health Care, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China
| | - Mengqi Zhu
- Department of Child Health Care, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China
| | - Jiajia Wang
- Department of Health Management, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China
| | - Hengshuang Wu
- Department of Gynecological Pelvis Floor Reconstruction Ward, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China
| | - Yameng Liu
- Department of Child Health Care, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China
| | - Di Huang
- Department of Child Health Care, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China.
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45
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Chen L, He Y, Zhu J, Zhao S, Qi S, Chen X, Zhang H, Ni Z, Zhou Y, Chen G, Liu S, Xie T. The roles and mechanism of m 6A RNA methylation regulators in cancer immunity. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114839. [PMID: 37156113 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most common internal modification in RNA, can be regulated by three types of regulators, including methyltransferases (writers), demethylases (erasers), and m6A binding proteins (readers). Recently, immunotherapy represented by immune checkpoint blocking has increasingly become an effective cancer treatment, and increasing shreds of evidence show that m6A RNA methylation affects cancer immunity in various cancers. Until now, there have been few reviews about the role and mechanism of m6A modification in cancer immunity. Here, we first summarized the regulation of m6A regulators on the expression of target messenger RNAs (mRNA) and their corresponding roles in inflammation, immunity response, immune process and immunotherapy in various cancer cells. Meanwhile, we described the roles and mechanisms of m6A RNA modification in tumor microenvironment and immune response by affecting the stability of non-coding RNA (ncRNA). Moreover, we also discussed the m6A regulators or its target RNAs which might be used as predictor of cancer diagnosis and prognosis, and shed light on the potentiality of m6A methylation regulators as therapeutic targets in cancer immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Chen
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Ying He
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Jinyu Zhu
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Shujuan Zhao
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Shasha Qi
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Xudong Chen
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Ziheng Ni
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Yuan Zhou
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Gongxing Chen
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China.
| | - Shuiping Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China.
| | - Tian Xie
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Respiratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China.
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Abstract
Characterization of RNA modifications has identified their distribution features and molecular functions. Dynamic changes in RNA modification on various forms of RNA are essential for the development and function of the immune system. In this review, we discuss the value of innovative RNA modification profiling technologies to uncover the function of these diverse, dynamic RNA modifications in various immune cells within healthy and diseased contexts. Further, we explore our current understanding of the mechanisms whereby aberrant RNA modifications modulate the immune milieu of the tumor microenvironment and point out outstanding research questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dali Han
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Michelle Xu
- Institute for Immunology, Beijing Key Lab for Immunological Research on Chronic Diseases, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China;
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47
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Pan L, She H, Wang K, Xia W, Tang H, Fan Y, Ye J. Characterization of the m 6A regulator-mediated methylation modification patterns in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6617. [PMID: 37095314 PMCID: PMC10126108 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33891-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a form of posttranscriptional modification that plays important roles in cancer including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Most studies to date have focused on a limited number of regulators and oncogenic pathways, thus failing to provide comprehensive insight into the dynamic effects of m6A modification. In addition, the role of m6A modification in shaping immune cell infiltration in OSCC has yet to be clarified. This study was designed to assess m6A modification dynamics in OSCC and to understand how such modifications influence clinical immunotherapeutic treatment outcomes. m6A modification patterns linked with 23 m6A regulators were analyzed in 437 OSCC patients from TCGA and GEO cohorts. These patterns were then quantified through m6A score based on algorithms derived from a principal component analysis (PCA) approach. The m6A modification patterns of OSCC samples were grouped into two clusters based on the m6A regulators expression, and immune cell infiltration was linked with the 5-year survival outcomes of patients in these clusters. 1575 genes associated with OSCC patient prognosis were identified and used to re-cluster these samples into two groups. Patients in clusters exhibiting higher levels of m6A regulator expression exhibited poorer overall survival (OS), whereas patients with high m6A scores survived for longer (p < 0.001). The overall mortality rates in the groups of patients with low and high m6A scores were 55% and 40%, respectively, and the m6A score distributions in clusters of patients grouped by m6A modification patterns and gene expression further supported the link between a high m6A score and better prognostic outcomes. Immunophenoscore (IPS) values for patients in different m6A score groups suggested that the use of PD-1-specific antibodies or CTLA-4 inhibitors alone or in combination would yield superior treatment outcomes in patients in the high-m6A score group relative to the low-m6A score group. m6A modification patterns are relevant to heterogeneity in OSCC. Detailed analyses of m6A modification patterns may thus offer novel insight regarding immune cell infiltration within the OSCC tumor microenvironment, guiding novel efforts to provide patients with more effective immunotherapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Pan
- Department of Oral Mucosal Diseases, The Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 136# Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210000, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Jiangsu, China
| | - He She
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 136# Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210000, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Jiangsu, China
| | - Keyi Wang
- Department of Oral Mucosal Diseases, The Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 136# Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210000, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenhui Xia
- Department of Oral Mucosal Diseases, The Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 136# Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210000, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haonan Tang
- Department of Oral Mucosal Diseases, The Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 136# Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210000, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan Fan
- Department of Oral Mucosal Diseases, The Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 136# Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210000, Jiangsu, China.
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China.
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jinhai Ye
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 136# Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, 210000, Jiangsu, China.
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China.
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Jiangsu, China.
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48
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Zhu X, Zhou C, Zhao S, Zheng Z. Role of m6A methylation in retinal diseases. Exp Eye Res 2023; 231:109489. [PMID: 37084873 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Retinal diseases remain among the leading causes of visual impairment in developed countries, despite great efforts in prevention and early intervention. Due to the limited efficacy of current retinal therapies, novel therapeutic methods are urgently required. Over the past two decades, advances in next-generation sequencing technology have facilitated research on RNA modifications, which can elucidate the relevance of epigenetic mechanisms to disease. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), formed by methylation of adenosine at the N6-position, is the most widely studied RNA modification and plays an important role in RNA metabolism. It is dynamically regulated by writers (methyltransferases) and erasers (demethylases), and recognized by readers (m6A binding proteins). Although the discovery of m6A methylation can be traced back to the 1970s, its regulatory roles in retinal diseases are rarely appreciated. Here, we provide an overview of m6A methylation, and discuss its effects and possible mechanisms on retinal diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinoblastoma, retinitis pigmentosa, and proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Furthermore, we highlight potential agents targeting m6A methylation for retinal disease treatment and discuss the limitations and challenges of research in the field of m6A methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Chuandi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Shuzhi Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, 200080, China.
| | - Zhi Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, 200080, China.
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49
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Liu Y, Yang D, Liu T, Chen J, Yu J, Yi P. N6-methyladenosine-mediated gene regulation and therapeutic implications. Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:454-467. [PMID: 37068987 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
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 research. 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 diseases. Here, we review current knowledge of post-transcriptional and transcriptional 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujiao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Dan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Hematologic Malignancies Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA.
| | - Ping Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China.
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50
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Sikorski V, Selberg S, Lalowski M, Karelson M, Kankuri E. The structure and function of YTHDF epitranscriptomic m 6A readers. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:335-353. [PMID: 37069041 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Specific RNA sequences modified by a methylated adenosine, N6-methyladenosine (m6A), contribute to the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. The quantity of m6A in RNA is orchestrated by enzymes that write and erase it, while its effects are mediated by proteins that bind to read this modification. Dysfunction of this post-transcriptional regulatory process has been linked to human disease. Although the initial focus has been on pharmacological targeting of the writer and eraser enzymes, interest in the reader proteins has been challenged by a lack of clear understanding of their functional roles and molecular mechanisms of action. Readers of m6A-modified RNA (m6A-RNA) - the YTH (YT521-B homology) domain-containing protein family paralogs 1-3 (YTHDF1-3, referred to here as DF1-DF3) - are emerging as therapeutic targets as their links to pathological processes such as cancer and inflammation and their roles in regulating m6A-RNA fate become clear. We provide an updated understanding of the modes of action of DF1-DF3 and review their structures to unlock insights into drug design approaches for DF paralog-selective inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vilbert Sikorski
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Simona Selberg
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Maciej Lalowski
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), Meilahti Clinical Proteomics Core Facility, Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
| | - Mati Karelson
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Esko Kankuri
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, University of Helsinki, Finland.
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