Cell & Bioscience (Jan 2021)

Biological functions of m6A methyltransferases

  • Jianzhong Gu,
  • Yu Zhan,
  • Lvjia Zhuo,
  • Qin Zhang,
  • Guohua Li,
  • Qiujie Li,
  • Shasha Qi,
  • Jinyu Zhu,
  • Qun Lv,
  • Yingying Shen,
  • Yong Guo,
  • Shuiping Liu,
  • Tian Xie,
  • Xinbing Sui

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13578-020-00513-0
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11, no. 1
pp. 1 – 16

Abstract

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Abstract M6A methyltransferases, acting as a writer in N6-methyladenosine, have attracted wide attention due to their dynamic regulation of life processes. In this review, we first briefly introduce the individual components of m6A methyltransferases and explain their close connections to each other. Then, we concentrate on the extensive biological functions of m6A methyltransferases, which include cell growth, nerve development, osteogenic differentiation, metabolism, cardiovascular system homeostasis, infection and immunity, and tumour progression. We summarize the currently unresolved problems in this research field and propose expectations for m6A methyltransferases as novel targets for preventive and curative strategies for disease treatment in the future.

Keywords