Decoding the m6A epitranscriptome: exploring RNA modifications in brain and glioma tissues

Abstract

The term "Epitrancriptome" refers to the collection of chemical modifications that occur on RNA molecules, specifically the addition or removal of various chemical groups or marks. These modifications are distinct from the genetic code carried by the DNA sequence itself. Traditionally, the focus of molecular biology has been on the role of DNA and its transcription into RNA, which is then translated into proteins. However, recent research has revealed that RNA molecules can be chemically modified in various ways, which can have significant effects on their structure, stability, and function. The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is one of the most prevalent and well-studied RNA modifications in the field of epitrancriptomics. It involves the addition of a methyl group (CH3) to the sixth nitrogen atom of the adenosine base within RNA molecules. m6A modification occurs on various types of RNA, including messenger RNA (mRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), and microRNA (miRNA). It is dynamically regulated and plays crucial roles in numerous biological processes. m6A modification influences RNA stability, splicing, transport, localization, and translation. It can affect RNA structure and binding to RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), thereby modulating RNA-protein interactions and RNA processing. M6A modification is critical for normal development and cellular processes. Dysregulation of m6A modification has been linked to numerous diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, metabolic disorders, and viral infections. At the conference, I will present the work of our team related to the detection of m6A modifications in normal brain and glioblastoma tissues.