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Wang J, Gao W, Yu H, Xu Y, Bai C, Cong Q, Zhu Y. Research Progress on the Role of Epigenetic Methylation Modification in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2024; 11:1143-1156. [PMID: 38911291 PMCID: PMC11192199 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s458734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as the prevailing form of primary liver cancer, characterized by a poor prognosis and high mortality rate. A pivotal factor in HCC tumorigenesis is epigenetics, specifically the regulation of gene expression through methylation. This process relies significantly on the action of proteins that modify methylation, including methyltransferases, their associated binding proteins, and demethylases. These proteins are crucial regulators, orchestrating the methylation process by regulating enzymes and their corresponding binding proteins. This orchestration facilitates the reading, binding, detection, and catalysis of gene methylation sites. Methylation ences the development, prolisignificantly influferation, invasion, and prognosis of HCC. Furthermore, methylation modification and its regulatory mechanisms activate distinct biological characteristics in HCC cancer stem cells, such as inducing cancer-like differentiation of stem cells. They also influence the tumor microenvironment (TME) in HCC, modulate immune responses, affect chemotherapy resistance in HCC patients, and contribute to HCC progression through signaling pathway feedback. Given the essential role of methylation in genetic information, it holds promise as a potential tool for the early detection of HCC and as a target to improve drug resistance and promote apoptosis in HCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Infectious Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, 116000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenyue Gao
- Infectious Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, 116000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongbo Yu
- Infectious Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, 116000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuting Xu
- Infectious Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, 116000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Changchuan Bai
- Internal Department of Chinese Medicine, Dalian Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, Liaoning, 116013, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qingwei Cong
- Infectious Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, 116000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Infectious Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, 116000, People’s Republic of China
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2
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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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3
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Du M, Qu Y, Qin L, Zheng J, Sun W. The cell death-related genes machine learning model for precise therapy and clinical drug selection in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18168. [PMID: 38494848 PMCID: PMC10945081 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18168] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the prevailing subtype of hepatocellular malignancy. While previous investigations have evidenced a robust link with programmed cell death (PCD) and tumorigenesis, a comprehensive inquiry targeting the relationship between multiple PCDs and HCC remains scant. Our aim was to develop a predictive model for different PCD patterns in order to investigate their impact on survival rates, prognosis and drug response rates in HCC patients. We performed functional annotation and pathway analysis on identified PCD-related genes (PCDRGs) using multiple bioinformatics tools. The prognostic value of these PCDRGs was verified through a dataset obtained from GEO. Consensus clustering analysis was utilized to elucidate the correlation between diverse PCD clusters and pertinent clinical characteristics. To comprehensively uncover the distinct PCD regulatory patterns, our analysis integrated gene expression profiling, immune cell infiltration and enrichment analysis. To predict survival differences in HCC patients, we established a PCD model. To enhance the clinical applicability for the model, we developed a highly accurate nomogram. To address the treatment of HCC, we identified several promising chemotherapeutic agents and novel targeted drugs. These drugs may be effective in treating HCC and could improve patient outcomes. To develop a cell death feature for HCC patients, we conducted an analysis of 12 different PCD mechanisms using eligible data obtained from public databases. Through this analysis, we were able to identify 1254 PCDRGs likely to contribute to cell death on HCC. Further analysis of 1254 PCDRGs identified 37 genes with prognostic value in HCC patients. These genes were then categorized into two PCD clusters A and B. The categorization was based on the expression patterns of the genes in the different clusters. Patients in PCD cluster B had better survival probabilities. This suggests that PCD mechanisms, as represented by the genes in cluster B, may have a protective effect against HCC progression. Furthermore, the expression of PCDRGs was significantly higher in PCD cluster A, indicating that this cluster may be more closely associated with PCD mechanisms. Furthermore, our observations indicate that patients exhibiting elevated tumour mutation burden (TMB) are at an augmented risk of mortality, in comparison to those displaying low TMB and low-risk statuses, who are more likely to experience prolonged survival. In addition, we have investigated the potential distinctions in the susceptibility of diverse risk cohorts towards emerging targeted therapies, designed for the treatment of HCC. Moreover, our investigation has shown that AZD2014, SB505124, LJI308 and OSI-207 show a greater efficacy in patients in the low-risk category. Conversely, for the high-risk group patients, PD173074, ZM447439 and CZC24832 exhibit a stronger response. Our findings suggest that the identification of risk groups and personalized treatment selection could lead to better clinical outcomes for patients with HCC. Furthermore, significant heterogeneity in clinical response to ICI therapy was observed among HCC patients with varying PCD expression patterns. This novel discovery underscores the prospective usefulness of these expression patterns as prognostic indicators for HCC patients and may aid in tailoring targeted treatment for those of distinct risk strata. Our investigation introduces a novel prognostic model for HCC that integrates diverse PCD expression patterns. This innovative model provides a novel approach for forecasting prognosis and assessing drug sensitivity in HCC patients, driving a more personalized and efficacious treatment paradigm, elevating clinical outcomes. Nonetheless, additional research endeavours are required to confirm the model's precision and assess its potential to inform clinical decision-making for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyang Du
- Department of RadiologyShengjing Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangLiaoningChina
| | - Yonggang Qu
- Department of clinical medicineChina medical university Second HospitalShenyangLiaoningChina
| | - Lingshan Qin
- Department of clinical medicineFourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Jiahe Zheng
- Department of RadiologyShengjing Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangLiaoningChina
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of RadiologyShengjing Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangLiaoningChina
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4
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Ma H, Hong Y, Xu Z, Weng Z, Yang Y, Jin D, Chen Z, Yue J, Zhou X, Xu Z, Fei F, Li J, Song W. N 6-methyladenosine (m 6A) modification in hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116365. [PMID: 38452654 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116365] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest cancers of human, the tumor-related death of which ranks third among the common malignances. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, the most abundant internal modification of RNA in mammals, participates in the metabolism of mRNA and interrelates with ncRNAs. In this paper, we overviewed the complex function of m6A regulators in HCC, including regulating the tumorigenesis, progression, prognosis, stemness, metabolic reprogramming, autophagy, ferroptosis, drug resistance and tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Furthermore, we elucidated the interplay between m6A modification and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs). Finally, we summarized the potential of m6A regulators as diagnostic biomarkers. What's more, we reviewed the inhibitors targeting m6A enzymes as promising therapeutic targets of HCC. We aimed to help understand the function of m6A methylation in HCC systematically and comprehensively so that more effective strategies for HCC treatment will be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hehua Ma
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yuxin Hong
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhenzhen Xu
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zuyi Weng
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yuanxun Yang
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Dandan Jin
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhiyou Chen
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jing Yue
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zhi Xu
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Fei Fei
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Juan Li
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China.
| | - Wei Song
- Phase I Clinical Trials Unit, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China.
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5
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Chen H, Zhao X, Yang W, Zhang Q, Hao R, Jiang S, Han H, Yu Z, Xing S, Feng C, Wang Q, Lu H, Li Y, Quan C, Lu Y, Zhou G. RNA N6-methyladenosine modification-based biomarkers for absorbed ionizing radiation dose estimation. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6912. [PMID: 37903783 PMCID: PMC10616291 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42665-w] [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: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiation triage and biological dosimetry are critical for the medical management of massive potentially exposed individuals following radiological accidents. Here, we performed a genome-wide screening of radiation-responding mRNAs, whose N6-methyladenosine (m6A) levels showed significant alteration after acute irradiation. The m6A levels of three genes, Ncoa4, Ate1 and Fgf22, in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of mice showed excellent dose-response relationships and could serve as biomarkers of radiation exposure. Especially, the RNA m6A of Ncoa4 maintained a high level as long as 28 days after irradiation. We demonstrated its responsive specificity to radiation, conservation across the mice, monkeys and humans, and the dose-response relationship in PBMCs from cancer patients receiving radiation therapy. Finally, NOCA4 m6A-based biodosimetric models were constructed for estimating absorbed radiation doses in mice or humans. Collectively, this study demonstrated the potential feasibility of RNA m6A in radiation accidents management and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxia Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
- School of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Rongjiao Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
- School of Life Science, University of Hebei, Baoding City, Hebei Province, China
| | - Siao Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
- School of Life Science, University of Hebei, Baoding City, Hebei Province, China
| | - Huihui Han
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zuyin Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Changjiang Feng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanfeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng Quan
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yiming Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China.
- School of Life Science, University of Hebei, Baoding City, Hebei Province, China.
| | - Gangqiao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences at Beijing, Beijing Proteome Research Center, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China.
- School of Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang City, Hunan Province, China.
- School of Life Science, University of Hebei, Baoding City, Hebei Province, China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Personalized Cancer Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Ma E, Li J, Shen C, Gu Y, Zhang X, Li L, Zhao J, Wang Z. The m 6A-related gene signature stratifies poor prognosis patients and characterizes immunosuppressive microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1227593. [PMID: 37691948 PMCID: PMC10485364 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1227593] [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: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant epitranscriptomic modification of RNA, which can affect RNA metabolism and protein translation. The m6A modification plays a critical role in cancer development, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite several m6A-related signatures in HCC, most of them lack the necessary validation and the reliability is still elusive. Methods Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the Cancer Genome Atlas were comprehensively analyzed to identify m6A signature associated with HCC prognosis. Gene set enrichment analysis, tumor mutation burden (TMB), immune infiltration, and therapeutic response were evaluated. Importantly, mass spectrometry proteomics and multiplex immunofluorescence assays were performed for validation. Results The m6A-related protein-coding gene signature was established, which can divide HCC into high-/low-risk subgroups with markedly different overall survival (OS) and clinical stages. Furthermore, we validated its reliability and robustness in our 101 independent HCC specimens using proteomic detection and confirmed that our signature readily identified high-risk HCC patients with 3-year survival rates of 44.1% vs. 71.8% in the low-risk group. Functional analysis indicated that the high-risk group might stimulate the cell cycle and activate oncogenic pathways such as MAPK, mTOR, and VEGF, whereas the low-risk group mainly regulated amino acid, fatty acid, and drug metabolism. Additionally, the high-risk group had more TMB, upregulated immune checkpoint molecule expression, including PD-1, CTLA4, TIM3, and LAG3, and preferentially formed an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Accordingly, potential therapeutic responses showed that high-risk patients were potentially sensitive to inhibitors targeting the cell cycle and MAPK signaling, with patients possibly benefiting from immunotherapy. Moreover, multiplex immunofluorescence assays indicated that high-risk HCC samples displayed distinct immunosuppressive features, with abundant M2-polarized macrophages and T-regulatory cell infiltration. Conclusion The m6A signature had a prominent capacity to evaluate OS and characterize the tumor immune microenvironment of HCC, which may serve as a useful approach for risk stratification management and provide a valuable clue to choosing rational therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ensi Ma
- Liver Transplantation Center, General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianhua Li
- Liver Transplantation Center, General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Conghuan Shen
- Liver Transplantation Center, General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yange Gu
- Liver Transplantation Center, General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinju Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Li
- Liver Transplantation Center, General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengxin Wang
- Liver Transplantation Center, General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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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: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [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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8
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Yu W, Lin J, Yu T, Lou J, Qian C, Xu A, Liu B, Tao H, Jin L. The regulation of N6-methyladenosine modification in PD-L1-induced anti-tumor immunity. Immunol Cell Biol 2023; 101:204-215. [PMID: 36630591 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12620] [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: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) has exciting therapeutic efficacy in hematological malignancy and partial solid tumors. However, many patients still face failure with the treatment of immune checkpoint blockade because of PD-L1 expression regulation during transcription and post-transcription processes, including N6-methyladenosine (m6A). Similar to the epigenetic regulation in DNA and histones, recent research has revealed the essential regulation of m6A modification in RNA nuclear export, metabolism and translation. Recent studies have shown that m6A-induced PD-L1 expression emerges as one of the main reasons for the immunological alteration in this process and contributes to the failure of T cell-induced anti-tumor immunity. The results of preclinical studies demonstrate the potential of m6A-targeted therapy in combination with immune checkpoint blockade. The comprehensive expression of m6A-related genes also provided the possibility to indicate the prognosis and to optimize the treatment for patients of various cancer types. In this review, we focus on the m6A modification in PD-L1 mRNA as well as the regulation of PD-L1 expression in cancer cells and summarize its clinical value in anti-PD-L1 cancer immune therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinti Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tao Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianan Lou
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chao Qian
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ankai Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huimin Tao
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Libin Jin
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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9
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Zhou X, Li C, Chen T, Li W, Wang X, Yang Q. Targeting RNA N6-methyladenosine to synergize with immune checkpoint therapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:36. [PMID: 36810108 PMCID: PMC9942356 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01746-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint therapy, has revolutionized therapeutic options by reactivating the host immune system. However, the efficacy varies, and only a small portion of patients develop sustained antitumor responses. Hence, illustrating novel strategies that improve the clinical outcome of immune checkpoint therapy is urgently needed. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has been proved to be an efficient and dynamic posttranscriptional modification process. It is involved in numerous RNA processing, such as splicing, trafficking, translation and degradation. Compelling evidence emphasizes the paramount role of m6A modification in the regulation of immune response. These findings may provide a foundation for the rational combination of targeting m6A modification and immune checkpoints in cancer treatment. In the present review, we summarize the current landscape of m6A modification in RNA biology, and highlight the latest findings on the complex mechanisms by which m6A modification governs immune checkpoint molecules. Furthermore, given the critical role of m6A modification in antitumor immunity, we discuss the clinical significance of targeting m6A modification to improve the efficacy of immune checkpoint therapy for cancer control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianyong Zhou
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Wenhua Xi Road No. 107, Jinan, Shandong China ,grid.476866.dDepartment of Breast Surgery, Binzhou People’s Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong China
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Wenhua Xi Road No. 107, Jinan, Shandong China
| | - Tong Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Wenhua Xi Road No. 107, Jinan, Shandong China
| | - Wenhao Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Wenhua Xi Road No. 107, Jinan, Shandong China
| | - Xiaolong Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Wenhua Xi Road No. 107, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Qifeng Yang
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Wenhua Xi Road No. 107, Jinan, Shandong, China. .,Department of Pathology Tissue Bank, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Xi Road No. 107, Shandong, Jinan, China. .,Research Institute of Breast Cancer, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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10
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Huang Y, Zou Y, Tian Y, Yang Z, Hou Z, Li P, Liu F, Ling J, Wen Y. N6-methylandenosine-related immune genes correlate with prognosis and immune landscapes in gastric cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1009881. [PMID: 36523987 PMCID: PMC9745091 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1009881] [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: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to probe into the significance of N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-related immune genes (m6AIGs) in predicting prognoses and immune landscapes of patients with gastric cancer (GC). METHODS The clinical data and transcriptomic matrix of GC patients were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The clinically meaningful m6AIGs were acquired by univariate Cox regression analysis. GC patients were stratified into different clusters via consensus clustering analysis and different risk subgroups via m6AIGs prognostic signature. The clinicopathological features and tumor microenvironment (TME) in the different clusters and different risk subgroups were explored. The predictive performance was evaluated using the KM method, ROC curves, and univariate and multivariate regression analyses. Moreover, we fabricated a nomogram based on risk scores and clinical risk characteristics. Biological functional analysis was performed based on Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways. The connectivity map was used to screen out potential small molecule drugs for GC patients. RESULTS A total of 14 prognostic m6AIGs and two clusters based on 14 prognostic m6AIGs were identified. A prognostic signature based on 4 m6AIGs and a nomogram based on independent prognostic factors was constructed and validated. Different clusters and different risk subgroups were significantly correlated with TME scores, the distribution of immune cells, and the expression of immune checkpoint genes. Some malignant and immune biological processes and pathways were correlated with the patients with poor prognosis. Ten small molecular drugs with potential therapeutic effect were screened out. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed the prognostic role and significant values of m6AIGs in GC, which enhanced the understanding of m6AIGs and paved the way for developing predictive biomarkers and therapeutic targets for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuancheng Huang
- First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yushan Zou
- First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanhua Tian
- First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zehong Yang
- First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhengkun Hou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Peiwu Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fengbin Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Baiyun Branch of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiasheng Ling
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huizhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Huizhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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11
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Zhang C, Dai D, Zhang W, Yang W, Guo Y, Wei Q. Role of m6A RNA methylation in the development of hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 37:2039-2050. [PMID: 36066844 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15999] [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: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver malignancy that can be developed from hepatitis B and cirrhosis. Many pathophysiological alterations, including hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA integration, oxidative stress, cytokine release, telomerase homeostasis, mitochondrial damage, epigenetic modification, and tumor microenvironment, are involved in the biological process from hepatitis B to cirrhosis and HCC. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), as an epitranscriptomic modification of RNAs, can regulate the stability, splicing, degradation, transcription, and translation of downstream target RNAs in HBV and liver cancer cells. m6A regulators (writers, erasers, and readers) play an important role in the pathogenesis of HBV-associated HCC by regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, autophagy, differentiation, inflammation, angiogenesis, and tumor microenvironment. This review summarizes the current progress of m6A methylation in the molecular mechanisms, biological functions, and potential clinical implications of HBV-associated HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dongjun Dai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wangjian Zhang
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenjun Yang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yinglu Guo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qichun Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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12
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Luo Q, Guo Y, Xiao Q, Fu B, Zhang L, Guo Y, Huang Z, Li J. Expression and Clinical Significance of the m6A RNA-Binding Proteins YTHDF2 in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells From New-Onset Ankylosing Spondylitis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:922219. [PMID: 35755020 PMCID: PMC9218531 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.922219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
This study has focused on determining the association of m6A methyltransferase [methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), methyltransferase-like 14 (METTL14), and Wilms tumor 1-associating protein (WTAP)], demethylase [fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) and alkylation repair homolog protein 5 (ALKBH5)], RNA-binding proteins [YT521-B homology domains 2 (YTHDF2)], and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). A total of 154 specimens, containing 79 patients with new-onset AS and 75 healthy controls (HCs), participated in the study. The mRNA expressions of these m6A methyltransferase, demethylase, and RNA-binding protein in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The data showed that the mRNA expressions of YTHDF2 and ALKBH5 in PBMC from patients with new-onset AS were significantly decreased, and there was a positive correlation between RNA-binding proteins (YTHDF2) and demethylase (ALKBH5) in patients with new-onset AS. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the expression of YTHDF2 mRNA in PBMC is a risk factor of AS. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of the area under the curve (AUC) for mRNA YTHDF2 in new-onset AS and HC was 0.692, with a cutoff value of <0.8724, a sensitivity of 67%, and a specificity of 63%. Moreover, we constructed a novel predictive model based on a combination of mRNA YTHDF2 and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) for AS diagnosis (AUC = 0.865, sensitivity = 79.45%, specificity = 84.00%), and the predictive model correlated with the activity and severity of AS. This study indicates that the mRNA expression of YTHDF2 in PBMC may be involved in AS pathogenesis and a predictive model based on a combination of mRNA YTHDF2 and SII acts as a marker for diagnosis and progression of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Luo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yongqin Guo
- Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qiuyun Xiao
- Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Biqi Fu
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yang Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zikun Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Zikun Huang,
| | - Junming Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Junming Li,
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13
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Wang Y, Wang Y, Gu J, Su T, Gu X, Feng Y. The role of RNA m6A methylation in lipid metabolism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:866116. [PMID: 36157445 PMCID: PMC9492936 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.866116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The m6A methylation is the most numerous modification of mRNA in mammals, coordinated by RNA m6A methyltransferases, RNA m6A demethylases, and RNA m6A binding proteins. They change the RNA m6A methylation level in their specific manner. RNA m6A modification has a significant impact on lipid metabolic regulation. The "writer" METTL3/METTL14 and the "eraser" FTO can promote the accumulation of lipids in various cells by affecting the decomposition and synthesis of lipids. The "reader" YTHDF recognizes m6A methylation sites of RNA and regulates the target genes' translation. Due to this function that regulates lipid metabolism, RNA m6A methylation plays a pivotal role in metabolic diseases and makes it a great potential target for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yujie Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiarui Gu
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Tianhong Su
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaosong Gu
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yu Feng, ; Xiaosong Gu,
| | - Yu Feng
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yu Feng, ; Xiaosong Gu,
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14
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Guo L, Yang H, Zhou C, Shi Y, Huang L, Zhang J. N6-Methyladenosine RNA Modification in the Tumor Immune Microenvironment: Novel Implications for Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2021; 12:773570. [PMID: 34956201 PMCID: PMC8696183 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.773570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is one of the most common modifications of RNA in eukaryotic cells, and is mainly regulated by m6A methyltransferases (writers), m6A demethylases (erasers), and m6A binding proteins (readers). Recently, accumulating evidence has shown that m6A methylation plays crucial roles in the regulation of the tumor immune microenvironment, greatly impacting the initiation, progression, and metastasis processes of various cancers. In this review we first briefly summarizes the m6A-related concepts and detection methods, and then describes in detail the associations of m6A methylation modification with various tumor immune components especially immune cells (e.g., regulatory T cells, dendritic cells, macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells) in a variety of cancers. We discuss the relationship between m6A methylation and cancer occurrence and development with the involvement of tumor immunity highlighted, suggesting novel markers and potential targets for molecular pathological diagnosis and immunotherapy of various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liting Guo
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenfei Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Shi
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Huang
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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