Roles and implications of mRNA N6-methyladenosine in cancer

RNA N-6-methyladenosine modification is the most prevalent internal modification of eukaryotic RNAs and has emerged as a novel field of RNA epigenetics, garnering increased attention. To date, m(6)A modification has been shown to impact multiple RNA metabolic processes and play a vital role in numerous biological processes. Recent evidence suggests that aberrant m(6)A modification is a hallmark of cancer, and it plays a critical role in cancer development and progression through multiple mechanisms. Here, we review the biological functions of mRNA m(6)A modification in various types of cancers, with a particular focus on metabolic reprogramming, programmed cell death and tumor metastasis. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of targeting m(6)A modification or its regulatory proteins as a novel approach of cancer therapy and the progress of research on m(6)A modification in tumor immunity and immunotherapy. Finally, we summarize the development of different m(6)A detection methods and their advantages and disadvantages.