Crosstalk between m6A modification and alternative splicing during cancer progression

Abstract

Abstract Background N6‐methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent internal mRNA modification in eukaryotes, is added by m6A methyltransferases, removed by m6A demethylases and recognised by m6A‐binding proteins. This modification significantly influences carious facets of RNA metabolism and plays a pivotal role in cellular and physiological processes. Main body Pre‐mRNA alternative splicing, a process that generates multiple splice isoforms from multi‐exon genes, contributes significantly to the protein diversity in mammals. Moreover, the presence of crosstalk between m6A modification and alternative splicing, with m6A modifications on pre‐mRNAs exerting regulatory control, has been established. The m6A modification modulates alternative splicing patterns by recruiting specific RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) that regulate alternative splicing or by directly influencing the interaction between RBPs and their target RNAs. Conversely, alternative splicing can impact the deposition or recognition of m6A modification on mRNAs. The integration of m6A modifications has expanded the scope of therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment, while alternative splicing offers novel insights into the mechanistic role of m6A methylation in cancer initiation and progression. Conclusion This review aims to highlight the biological functions of alternative splicing of m6A modification machinery and its implications in tumourigenesis. Furthermore, we discuss the clinical relevance of understanding m6A‐dependent alternative splicing in tumour therapies.

Keywords

• alternative splicing
• cancer progression
• m6A modification
• RNA metabolism