m6A mRNA demethylase FTO regulates melanoma tumorigenicity and response to anti-PD-1 blockade

A novel FTO-targeting nanodrug induces disulfidptosis and ameliorates the suppressive tumor immune environment to treat uveal melanoma

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most prevalent primary ocular malignancy in adults, with high lethality and limited effective treatment options. Despite identified driver mutations in GNAQ, GNA11, and BAP1, therapeutic advancements have been minimal. This study highlights the pivotal role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications in UM pathogenesis and progression, focusing on the demethylase FTO as a therapeutic target. Elevated FTO expression in UM tissues correlates with decreased m6A levels, increased aggressiveness, and poor prognosis. The FTO inhibitor meclofenamic acid (MA) restored m6A levels, upregulated SLC7A11, and induced disulfidptosis, a unique form of cell death triggered by GSH depletion and NADPH consumption. To address MA's limitations in bioavailability and tumor targeting, we developed an MA-loaded nucleic acid nanodrug (SNAMA). SNAMA demonstrated effective tumor growth inhibition in orthotopic and metastatic UM models through GSH-responsive release and m6A-mediated disulfidptosis activation. Incorporating a PD-L1 aptamer into SNAMA further improved tumor targeting and immune modulation, enhancing therapeutic efficacy. This study identifies FTO as a critical target for UM therapy and introduces SNAMA-apt as a promising nanodrug. The findings offer a foundation for m6A-targeted approaches in UM and other malignancies, addressing bioavailability, targeting, and immune evasion challenges.

Baicalein disrupts TGF-β-induced EMT in pancreatic cancer by FTO-dependent m6A demethylation of ZEB1

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive malignancy associated with poor prognosis. Baicalein, a flavonoid extracted from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis, traditionally used in Chinese medicine, has demonstrated potential in inhibiting cancer development and progression. However, its mechanism of action remains poorly understood, particularly regarding epigenetic gene regulation through m6A RNA methylation. In this study, three human PDAC cell lines and one nonmalignant cell line were employed. The effects of baicalein were examined using multiple assays, including RT-qPCR, MeRIP-qPCR, Western blotting, spheroid formation, RNA stability, and MTT, to evaluate cellular functions and m6A regulation. Baicalein significantly reduced cell viability, migration, invasion, and colony formation. It also downregulated FTO, an enzyme critical for m6A RNA demethylation. Knockdown of FTO replicated the effects of baicalein, underscoring its oncogenic role in PDAC. Bioinformatic analysis identified ZEB1-a key transcription factor in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-as an m6A-modified target regulated by FTO. Both baicalein treatment and FTO knockdown enhanced m6A modification and decreased ZEB1 mRNA stability, thereby suppressing stemness-related features. Rescue experiments further confirmed that baicalein disrupts the TGF-β/FTO/ZEB1 signaling axis, highlighting its therapeutic potential in PDAC. This study offers fundamental insights for the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting PDAC.

N6-methyladenosine RNA modification in stomach carcinoma: Novel insights into mechanisms and implications for diagnosis and treatment

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation is crucially involved in the genesis and advancement of gastric cancer (GC) by controlling various pathobiological aspects including gene expression, signal transduction, metabolism, cell death, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and exosome function. Despite its importance, the exact mechanisms by which m6A modification influences GC biology remain inadequately explored. This review consolidates the latest advances in uncovering the mechanisms and diverse roles of m6A in GC and proposes new research and translational directions. Key regulators (writers, readers, and erasers) of m6A, such as METTL3/14/16 and WTAP, significantly affect cancer progression, anticancer immune response, and treatment outcomes. m6A modification also impacts immune cell infiltration and the tumor microenvironment, highlighting its potential as a diagnostic and prognostic marker. Interactions between m6A methylation and non-coding RNAs offer further novel insights into GC development and therapeutic targets. Targeting m6A regulators could enhance immunotherapy response, overcome treatment resistance, and improve oncological and clinical outcomes. Models based on m6A can precisely predict treatment response and prognosis in GC. Additional investigation is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of m6A methylation and its potential clinical applications and relevance (e.g., as precise markers for early detection, prediction of outcome, and response to therapy and as therapeutic targets) in GC. Future research should focus on in vivo studies, potential clinical trials, and the examination of m6A modification in other types of cancers.

FTO Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression by Mediating m6A Modification of BUB1 and Targeting TGF-βR1 to Activate the TGF-β Signaling Pathway

Background and Aims

Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) has been linked to various cancers, though its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate FTO expression, its clinical relevance, functional role in HCC progression, and the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

Quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemical analysis were used to assess FTO expression in HCC. Functional assays, including proliferation, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition studies, were conducted using HCC cell lines with FTO knockdown. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA stability assays further elucidated the role of FTO in BUB1 mRNA methylation and stability. Co-immunoprecipitation studies were employed to confirm the interaction between BUB1 and TGF-βR1. In vivo studies in nude mice were conducted to evaluate tumor growth following FTO knockdown.

Results

FTO was significantly upregulated in HCC tissues compared to normal liver tissues, with higher expression observed in advanced tumor-node-metastasis stages and metastatic HCC. Elevated FTO correlated with poor overall survival in patients. Silencing FTO decreased HCC cell proliferation, colony formation, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and tumor growth in nude mice. Mechanistically, FTO downregulation led to increased m6A modification of BUB1 mRNA, thereby promoting its degradation via the YTH domain family 2-dependent pathway and reducing BUB1 protein levels. Additionally, BUB1 physically interacted with TGF-βR1, activating downstream TGF-β signaling.

Conclusions

FTO is overexpressed in HCC and is associated with poor clinical outcomes. Mechanistically, FTO promotes HCC progression by stabilizing BUB1 mRNA through an m6A-YTH domain family 2-dependent pathway, which activates TGF-β signaling. Targeting the FTO-BUB1-TGF-βR1 regulatory network may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for HCC.

METTL1-mediated m7G tRNA modification drives papillary thyroid cancer progression and metastasis by regulating the codon-specific translation of TNF-α

N7-methylguanosine (m7G) modification of transfer RNA (tRNA) is essential for the biological functions of tRNAs and has been found to play a regulatory role in a variety of human cancers. However, the biological function of METTL1-mediated m7G tRNA modification in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is unclear. Here, we found that METTL1 is significantly upregulated in PTC tissues compared to normal control tissues and is associated with poor PTC prognosis. Functional analysis confirmed that METTL1 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of PTC cells in a manner dependent on its tRNA methyltransferase activity. Mechanistically, METTL1 knockdown leads to a decrease in the abundance of certain m7G-modified tRNAs, which suppresses the m7G tRNA modification-mediated codon-specific translation of TNF-α. Furthermore, exogenous supplementation with TNF-α partially reversed the decrease in the proliferation and metastasis of PTC cells induced by METTL1 deletion. Positive correlations between METTL1, WDR4, and TNF-α expression, which affect the proliferation and metastasis of PTC, were confirmed via analysis of microarrays containing PTC tissues. These results demonstrate the oncogenic role of METTL1-mediated m7G tRNA modification in regulating codon-specific translation efficiency in PTC and suggest that targeting METTL1 may be a promising therapeutic approach for overcoming PTC progression by inhibiting PTC cell proliferation and metastasis.

Epigenetic Therapies in Melanoma-Targeting DNA Methylation and Histone Modification

Skin cancer prevalence has increased during the last decades, with the last years serving as a pivotal moment for comprehending its epidemiological patterns and its impact on public health. Melanoma is one of the most frequently occurring malignancies, arising from a complex interplay of genetic factors, environmental factors, lifestyle and socio-economic conditions. Epigenetic changes play a critical role in tumor development, influencing progression and aggressiveness. Epigenetic therapies could represent novel therapeutic options, while drug repositioning may serve as a viable strategy for cancer treatment. Demethylating agents, commonly used in hematological malignancies, show promising results on solid tumors, including melanoma. Methylation patterns are responsible for tumor development by modulating gene expression, while histone acetylation influences DNA processes such as transcription, replication, repair, and recombination. This review aims to identify existing potential therapeutical approaches using therapeutic agents that can modulate DNA methylation and histone modification, which can lead to tumor inhibition, cell death initiation and reactivation of tumor suppressor genes.

TIM-3 teams up with PD-1 in cancer immunotherapy: mechanisms and perspectives

Immunotherapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has become a prominent strategy for cancer treatment over the past ten years. However, the efficacy of ICIs remains limited, with certain cancers exhibiting resistance to these therapeutic approaches. Consequently, several immune checkpoint proteins are presently being thoroughly screened and assessed in both preclinical and clinical studies. Among these candidates, T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3) is considered a promising target. TIM-3 exhibits multiple immunosuppressive effects on various types of immune cells. Given its differential expression levels at distinct stages of T cell dysfunction in the tumor microenvironment (TME), TIM-3, along with programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), serves as indicators of T cell exhaustion. Moreover, it is crucial to carefully evaluate the impact of TIM-3 and PD-1 expression in cancer cells on the efficacy of immunotherapy. To increase the effectiveness of anti-TIM-3 and anti-PD-1 therapies, it is proposed to combine the inhibition of TIM-3, PD-1, and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). The efficacy of TIM-3 inhibition in conjunction with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors is being evaluated in a number of ongoing clinical trials for patients with various cancers. This study systematically investigates the fundamental biology of TIM-3 and PD-1, as well as the detailed mechanisms through which TIM-3 and PD-1/PD-L1 axis contribute to cancer immune evasion. Additionally, this article provides a thorough analysis of ongoing clinical trials evaluating the synergistic effects of combining PD-1/PD-L1 and TIM-3 inhibitors in anti-cancer treatment, along with an overview of the current status of TIM-3 and PD-1 antibodies.

Development of 3-arylaminothiophenic-2-carboxylic acid derivatives as new FTO inhibitors showing potent antileukemia activities

Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) is the first discovered RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) demethylase. The highly expressed FTO protein is required to trigger oncogenic pathways in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which makes FTO a promising antileukemia drug target. In this study, we identify 3-arylaminothiophenic-2-carboxylic acid derivatives as new FTO inhibitors with good antileukemia activity. We replaced the phenyl A-ring in FB23, the first-generation of FTO inhibitor, with five-membered heterocycles and synthesized a new class of FTO inhibitors. Compound 12o/F97 shows strong enzymatic inhibitory activity and potent antiproliferative activity. 12o/F97 selectively inhibits m6A demethylation by FTO rather than ALKBH5, and has minimal effect on m1A demethylation by ALKBH3. Additionally, 12o/F97 increases the protein levels of RARA and ASB2, while decreasing that of MYC in AML cell lines. Lastly, 12o/F97 exhibits antileukemia activity in a xenograft mice model without significant side-effects. The identification of 3-arylaminothiophenic-2-carboxylic acid derivatives as new FTO inhibitors not only expands the chemical space but also holds potential for antileukemia drug development.

Orchestration of immunoregulatory signaling ligand and receptor dynamics by mRNA modifications: Implications for therapeutic potential

RNA modifications are pivotal regulators of gene expression, significantly influencing immune responses by modulating the stability and translation of mRNAs encoding key immunoregulatory ligands and receptors. Among these modifications, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant and well-characterized, orchestrating immune evasion, T-cell exhaustion, and cytokine production by dynamically regulating transcripts such as PD-L1, IFN-γ, and TGF-β. These modifications critically impact the function and availability of proteins essential for maintaining immune homeostasis and shaping adaptive immune responses. This review comprehensively examines established and emerging roles of mRNA modifications in regulating immunoregulatory signaling, including co-inhibitory and co-stimulatory molecules, chemokines, cytokines, and transforming growth factor-β. We highlight how m6A writers, erasers, and readers finely regulate immune checkpoints and inflammatory pathways across cancer, infection, and autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, the review provides a critical analysis of current discrepancies in the field, emphasizing factors contributing to inconsistencies and offering insights into the complex nature of epigenetic regulation. Challenges and limitations in this rapidly evolving area are also discussed. Advancing detection technologies and developing specific inhibitors targeting RNA-modifying proteins will be crucial for precisely modulating immune responses, paving the way for innovations in precision medicine and immunotherapy.

Research progress on m6A and drug resistance in gastrointestinal tumors

Gastrointestinal (GI) tumors represent a significant global health burden and are among the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. their drug resistance is one of the major challenges in cancer therapy. In recent years, epigenetic modifications, especially N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modifications, have become a hot research topic. m6A modification plays an important role in gene expression and cancer progression by regulating RNA splicing, translation, stability, and degradation, which are regulated by "writers," "erasers" and "readers." In GI tumors, resistance to chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy is closely associated with m6A RNA modification. Therefore, the molecular mechanism of m6A modification and its targeted drug development provide new therapeutic strategies for overcoming drug resistance and therapeutic efficacy in GI tumors. In this review, the biological functions of m6A were explored, the specific resistance mechanisms of m6A in different types of GI tumors were explored, new ideas and targets for future treatment resistance were identified, and the limitations of this field were highlighted.

Revealing tumor microenvironment communication through m6A single-cell analysis and elucidating immunotherapeutic potentials for cutaneous melanoma (CM)

BACKGROUND

The methylation of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA plays a crucial role in the genetic regulation of various cancers. While m6A modifications have been extensively studied in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of several malignancies, their role in cutaneous melanoma (CM) remains unexplored.

METHODS

Using Non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) analysis on single-cell RNA-seq data (GSE215121) from three CM samples obtained from public databases, 26 m6A RNA methylation regulators were utilized to determine TME subclusters, their expression, and function.

RESULTS

Six distinct TME cell types were identified and NMF clustering further revealed unique m6A-based subpopulations of cancer-associated fibroblasts and T cells. The prognostic model demonstrated strong predictive capabilities, particularly for fibroblast and T cell m6A clusters, and highlighted COL3A1 as a critical regulator of melanoma-fibroblast interactions.

CONCLUSION

Highlighting the COL3A1 gene as a critical link and potential therapeutic target in melanoma could offer new avenues for targeted therapies and improve prognostic assessments in cutaneous melanoma.

RNA modifications in the tumor microenvironment: insights into the cancer-immunity cycle and beyond

The chemical modification of biological molecules is a critical regulatory mechanism for controlling molecular functions. Although research has long focused on DNA and proteins, RNA modifications have recently attracted substantial interest with the advancement in detection technologies. In oncology, many studies have identified dysregulated RNA modifications including m6A, m1A, m5C, m7G, pseudouridylation and A to I editing, leading to disrupted downstream pathways. As the concept of the tumor microenvironment has gained prominence, studies have increasingly examined the role of RNA modifications in this context, focusing on interactions among cancer cells, immune cells, stromal cells, and other components. Here we review the RNA modifications in the tumor microenvironment through the perspective of the Cancer-Immunity Cycle. The extracellular RNA modifications including exosomes and influence of microbiome in RNA modifications are potential research questions. Additionally, RNA modifying enzymes including FTO, ALKBH5, METTL3, PUS7 are under investigation as potential biomarkers and targets for combination with immunotherapies. ADCs and mimetics of modified RNA could be potential novel drugs. This review discusses the regulatory roles of RNA modifications within the tumor microenvironment.

Abnormal changes in metabolites caused by m6A methylation modification: The leading factors that induce the formation of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and their promising potential for clinical application

BACKGROUND

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation modifications have been widely implicated in the metabolic reprogramming of various cell types within the tumor microenvironment (TME) and are essential for meeting the demands of cellular growth and maintaining tissue homeostasis, enabling cells to adapt to the specific conditions of the TME. An increasing number of research studies have focused on the role of m6A modifications in glucose, amino acid and lipid metabolism, revealing their capacity to induce aberrant changes in metabolite levels. These changes may in turn trigger oncogenic signaling pathways, leading to substantial alterations within the TME. Notably, certain metabolites, including lactate, succinate, fumarate, 2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG), glutamate, glutamine, methionine, S-adenosylmethionine, fatty acids and cholesterol, exhibit pronounced deviations from normal levels. These deviations not only foster tumorigenesis, proliferation and angiogenesis but also give rise to an immunosuppressive TME, thereby facilitating immune evasion by the tumor.

AIM OF REVIEW

The primary objective of this review is to comprehensively discuss the regulatory role of m6A modifications in the aforementioned metabolites and their potential impact on the development of an immunosuppressive TME through metabolic alterations.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

This review aims to elaborate on the intricate networks governed by the m6A-metabolite-TME axis and underscores its pivotal role in tumor progression. Furthermore, we delve into the potential implications of the m6A-metabolite-TME axis for the development of novel and targeted therapeutic strategies in cancer research.

Regulation and application of m6A modification in tumor immunity

The m6A modification is an RNA modification that impacts various processes of RNA molecules, including transcription, splicing, stability, and translation. Recently, researchers have discovered that the presence of m6A modification can influence the interaction between tumor cells and immune cells and also play a role in regulating the expression of immune response-related genes. Additionally, m6A modification is intricately involved in the regulation of tumor immune evasion and drug resistance. Specifically, certain tumor cells can manipulate the gene expression through m6A modification to evade immune system attacks. Therefore, it might be possible to enhance tumor immune surveillance and improve the effectiveness of immune-based therapies by manipulating m6A modification. This review systematically discusses the role of m6A modification in tumor immunity, specifically highlighting its regulation of immune cells and immune-related genes in tumor cells. Furthermore, we explore the potential of m6A modification inhibitors as anti-cancer therapies and the significance of m6A regulatory factors in predicting the efficacy of tumor immune therapy.

RNA N6-methyladenosine demethylase FTO promotes diabetic wound healing through TRIB3-mediated autophagy in an m6A-YTHDF2-dependent manner

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification impaired autophagy results in delayed diabetic wound healing. In this study, it was found that fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) was significantly downregulated in the epidermis of diabetic patients, STZ-induced mice and db/db mice (type I and II diabetic mice) with prolonged hyperglycemia, as well as in different types of keratinocyte cell lines treated with short-term high glucose medium. The knockout of FTO affected the biological functions of keratinocytes, including enhanced apoptosis, inhibited autophagy, and delayed wound healing, producing consistent results with high-glucose medium treatment. High-throughput analysis revealed that tribbles pseudokinase 3 (TRIB3) served as the downstream target gene of FTO. In addition, both in vitro and in vivo experiments, TRIB3 overexpression partially rescued biological functions caused by FTO-depletion, promoting keratinocyte migration and proliferation via autophagy. Epigenetically, FTO modulated m6A modification in the 3'UTR of TRIB3 mRNA and enhanced TRIB3 stability in a YTHDF2-dependent manner. Collectively, this study identifies FTO as an accelerator of diabetic wound healing and modulates autophagy via regulating TRIB3 in keratinocytes, thereby benefiting the development of a m6A-targeted therapy for refractory diabetic wounds.

YTHDF2 promotes the metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma through the JAK-STAT pathway

RNA-binding proteins act as crucial mediators between N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and RNA function, playing a significant role in the recurrence and metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). YTHDF2, the first identified RNA-binding protein, has been shown to be closely associated with the prognosis of certain types of cancer. However, the role of YTHDF2 in OSCC and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood and require further investigation. First, we analysed the expression levels of YTHDF2 and examined its correlation with clinical features using public databases and OSCC patient samples. Subsequently, a series of in vitro functional experiments were conducted to assess the effects of YTHDF2 on the proliferation, migration, and invasion capabilities of OSCC cells. Additionally, RNA-seq analysis was utilized to investigate the signalling pathways modulated by YTHDF2, which was further supported by experimental validation. Our findings revealed that YTHDF2 expression was significantly elevated in OSCC tissues and cells, with levels closely correlated with the clinical stage, pathological grade, and survival time of patients. The knockdown of YTHDF2 resulted in a significant reduction in the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of OSCC cells. Furthermore, RNA sequencing data indicated that silencing YTHDF2 suppressed the JAK-STAT signalling pathway, and the use of STAT3 activators reversed this suppressive effect in OSCC cells. Our study demonstrated that YTHDF2 promotes the proliferation, metastasis, and invasion of OSCC by positively regulating the JAK-STAT signalling pathway, suggesting that YTHDF2 could serve as a potential prognostic marker for the diagnosis and treatment of OSCC.

The prognostic model of low-grade glioma based on m6A-associated immune genes and functional study of FBXO4 in the tumor microenvironment

Background

m6A plays a dual role in regulating the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, and is crucial in tumorigenesis and progression. The immune system is closely involved in tumorigenesis and development, playing a key role in tumor therapy and resistance. However, research on m6A-related immune markers in low-grade gliomas is still limited and requires further investigation.

Methods

All data was obtained from the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas database and The Cancer Genome Atlas. The construction of the prognostic model and the online application of the dynamic nomogram relied on univariate Cox analysis, LASSO regression, and multivariate Cox analysis. Two different clustering analyses were performed on all samples, resulting in high, medium, and low expression groups of m6A regulatory and immune genes, followed by an analysis of the correlations between these scores. Finally, the biological role of FBXO4 in glioma cells was determined through quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, cell proliferation assays, and cell migration experiments.

Results

The prognostic model for low-grade glioma demonstrated strong performance, with an AUC over 0.9 in the training group. In the internal validation group, AUC values ranged from 0.831 to 0.894, while in the external validation group, the AUC ranged from 0.623 to 0.813. Additionally, the online application of the dynamic nomogram allowed for relatively accurate predictions of LGG patients' survival time. Further analysis revealed that the high-expression groups of m6A regulatory genes and m6A-related immune genes exhibited higher levels of immune cells and stromal cells, lower tumor purity, and poorer survival rates. GSEA enrichment analysis suggested that these findings might be related to the activation of multiple signaling pathways. This may explain the lower survival rates observed in this group. Furthermore, the m6A score was significantly associated with moderate to high expression of immune genes and high expression of m6A regulatory genes, and it showed a positive correlation with most immune cell types. Finally, in vitro experiments confirmed that silencing FBXO4 significantly inhibited proliferation and migration in glioma cell lines, further supporting the biological relevance of our model.

Conclusion

Based on multi-dimensional clustering analysis and experimental validation, the prognostic model developed in this study can effectively assess the prognosis of LGG patients and their relationship with the immune microenvironment. Furthermore, the correlation analysis between m6A scores and the tumor microenvironment provides a foundation for further exploration of the disease's pathophysiology. Additionally, we suggest that FBXO4 may serve as an important biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of LGG.

Modifications of RNA in cancer: a comprehensive review

RNA modifications play essential roles in post-transcriptional gene regulation and have emerged as significant contributors to cancer biology. Major chemical modifications of RNA include N6-methyladenosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), N1-methyladenosine (m1A), pseudouridine (ψ), and N7-methylguanosine (m7G). Their dynamic regulation highlights their roles in gene expression modulation, RNA stability, and translation. Advanced high-throughput detection methods, ranging from liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography to next-generation sequencing (NGS) and nanopore direct RNA sequencing, have enabled detailed studies of RNA modifications in cancer cells. Aberrant RNA modifications are associated with the dysregulation of tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, influencing cancer progression, therapy resistance, and immune evasion. Emerging research suggests the therapeutic potential of targeting RNA-modifying enzymes and their inhibitors in cancer treatment. This review compiles and analyzes the latest findings on RNA modifications, presenting an in-depth discussion of the diverse chemical alterations that occur in RNA and their profound implications in cancer biology. It integrates fundamental principles with cutting-edge research, offering a holistic perspective on how RNA modifications influence gene expression, tumor progression, and therapeutic resistance. It emphasizes the need for further studies to elucidate the complex roles of RNA modifications in cancer, as well as the potential for multimodality therapeutic strategies that exploit the dynamic and reversible nature of these epitranscriptomic marks. It also attempts to highlight the challenges, gaps, and limitations of RNA modifications in cancer that should be tackled before their functional implications. Understanding the interplay between RNA modifications, cancer pathways, and their inhibitors will be crucial for developing promising RNA-based therapeutic approaches to cancer and personalized medicine strategies.

The Role of M6A Modification in Autoimmunity: Emerging Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

N6-methyladenosine (m6A), a prevalent and essential RNA modification, serves a key function in driving autoimmune disease pathogenesis. By modulating immune cell development, activation, migration, and polarization, as well as inflammatory pathways, m6A is crucial in forming innate defenses and adaptive immunity. This article provides a comprehensive overview of m6A modification features and reveals how its dysregulation affects the intensity and persistence of immune responses, disrupts immune tolerance, exacerbates tissue damage, and promotes the development of autoimmunity. Specific examples include its contributions to systemic autoimmune disorders like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as conditions that targeting specific organs like multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes. Furthermore, this review explores the therapeutic promise of target m6A-related enzymes ("writers," "erasers," and "readers") and summarizes recent advances in intervention strategies. By focusing on the mechanistic and therapeutic implications of m6A modification, this review sheds light on its role as a promising tool for both diagnosis and treatment in autoimmune disorders, laying the foundation for advancements in customized medicine.

A patenting perspective of fat mass and obesity associated protein (FTO) inhibitors: 2017-present

INTRODUCTION

The fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) catalytically demethylates RNA N6-methyl adenosine (m6A) modification, dynamically regulates gene expression in eukaryotes. Interestingly, FTO is highly expressed and functions as an oncogenic factor in a wide range of cancers. Therefore, using small-molecule inhibitors to target FTO has been established as a promising therapeutic strategy for combating cancers.

AREAS COVERED

Patent literature claiming novel chemical entities as FTO inhibitors disclosed from 2017 to present is available in Espacenet, including dozens of patent documents.

EXPERT OPINION

The pivotal influence of FTO demethylase in a particular epigenetic layer of regulation of gene expression renders it promising for FTO to be a therapeutical target for many diseases, including malignant cancers. Several institutions were prompted and have patented chemical frameworks as FTO inhibitors. Remarkedly, the FTO inhibitor CS1 (Bisantrene) has advanced to clinical trials for treating acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The successful advancement of CS1 into clinical trials would continuingly stimulate researches on RNA epigenetic enzymes targeted first-in-class anticancer drug discovery.

m6A RNA methylation: a pivotal regulator of tumor immunity and a promising target for cancer immunotherapy

M6A modification is one of the most common regulatory mechanisms of gene expression in eukaryotic cells, influencing processes such as RNA splicing, degradation, stability, and protein translation. Studies have shown that m6A methylation is closely associated with tumorigenesis and progression, and it plays a key regulatory role in tumor immune responses. m6A modification participates in regulating the differentiation and maturation of immune cells, as well as related anti-tumor immune responses. In the tumor microenvironment, m6A modification can also affect immune cell recruitment, activation, and polarization, thereby promoting or inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and metastasis, and reshaping the tumor immune microenvironment. In recent years, immunotherapies for tumors, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell immunotherapy, have been increasingly applied in clinical settings, achieving favorable outcomes. Targeting m6A modifications to modulate the immune system, such as using small-molecule inhibitors to target dysregulated m6A regulatory factors or inducing immune cell reprogramming, can enhance anti-tumor immune responses and strengthen immune cell recognition and cytotoxicity against tumor cells. m6A modification represents a new direction in tumor immunotherapy with promising clinical potential. This review discusses the regulatory role of m6A methylation on immune cells and tumor immune responses and explores new strategies for immunotherapy.

The m6A revolution: transforming tumor immunity and enhancing immunotherapy outcomes

N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent RNA modification in eukaryotes, plays a critical role in the development and progression of various diseases, including cancer, through its regulation of RNA degradation, stabilization, splicing, and cap-independent translation. Emerging evidence underscores the significant role of m6A modifications in both pro-tumorigenic and anti-tumorigenic immune responses. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of m6A modifications and examine the relationship between m6A regulators and cancer immune responses. Additionally, we summarize recent advances in understanding how m6A modifications influence tumor immune responses by directly modulating immune cells (e.g., dendritic cells, tumor-associated macrophages, and T cells) and indirectly affecting cancer cells via mechanisms such as cytokine and chemokine regulation, modulation of cell surface molecules, and metabolic reprogramming. Furthermore, we explore the potential synergistic effects of targeting m6A regulators in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies. Together, this review consolidates current knowledge on the role of m6A-mediated regulation in tumor immunity, offering insights into how a deeper understanding of these modifications may identify patients who are most likely to benefit from immunotherapies.

Mechanisms of Resistance to Anti-PD-1 Immunotherapy in Melanoma and Strategies to Overcome It

Resistance to anti-PD-1 therapy in melanoma remains a major obstacle in achieving effective and durable treatment outcomes, highlighting the need to understand and address the underlying mechanisms. The first key factor is innate anti-PD-1 resistance signature (IPRES), an expression of a group of genes associated with tumor plasticity and immune evasion. IPRES promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), increasing melanoma cells' invasiveness and survival. Overexpressed AXL, TWIST2, and WNT5a induce phenotypic changes. The upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines frequently coincides with EMT-related changes, further promoting a resistant and aggressive tumor phenotype. Inflamed tumor microenvironment may also drive the expression of resistance. The complexity of immune resistance development suggests that combination therapies are necessary to overcome it. Furthermore, targeting epigenetic regulation and exploring novel approaches such as miR-146a modulation may provide new strategies to counter resistance in melanoma.

The role of FTO in m6A RNA methylation and immune regulation in Staphylococcus aureus infection-related osteomyelitis

Background

Regulators of n6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification play important roles in many diseases; however, their involvement in Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)-related osteomyelitis remains inadequately explored. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the role of m6A in S. aureus infection-related osteomyelitis and elucidate its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

We downloaded the S. aureus infection-related osteomyelitis infection dataset GSE30119 from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Initially, we constructed a diagnostic model based on m6A genes and predicted the hub node miRNAs and transcription factors by constructing a protein-protein interaction network. Subsequently, a prognostic model was built using LASSO regression, the receiver operating characteristic curve of the model was plotted, and the predictive performance of the diagnostic model was validated. Further, unsupervised clustering analysis, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and gene set variation analysis (GSVA) were employed to assess immune cell infiltration. Additionally, we validated the expression of fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) in S. aureus-infected Raw264.7 macrophages using qPCR and western blotting. Moreover, we conducted si-FTO experiments on mouse Raw264.7 macrophages to investigate the anti-inflammatory regulatory role of si-FTO during S. aureus infection.

Results

We identified 19 co-expressed genes closely related to FTO were identified, along with 206 related transcription factor regulatory genes and 589 miRNAs. Enrichment analyses suggested that these genes were involved in pathways related to the proliferation and oxidation of various immune cells, cellular senescence, and various tumors and immune cells, as well as cell cycle-related functions. GSEA revealed that PD-1, TH1, TH2, CTLA4, and other pathways were significantly enriched in patients with high FTO expression. GSVA indicated that the differentially enriched pathways were related to included amino acid metabolism, immunity, and infection. Correlation analysis of immune infiltration revealed that monocytes, M2 macrophages, resting mast cells, and neutrophils were present in normal and diseased samples. Differences in expression were observed between the groups. The western blotting and qPCR analyses confirmed that the protein expression of FTO was reduced in macrophages after infection with S. aureus, consistent with the observed changes in mRNA expression. Furthermore, we validated that FTO may influence the regulation of inflammation through the FoxO1/NF-kB pathway.

Conclusion

The m6A RNA methylation regulator FTO may serve as a potential diagnostic marker and therapeutic target, involved in the pathogenesis of S. aureus infection-related osteomyelitis. This finding provides new insights into the relationship between FTO-mediated m6A RNA methylation and osteomyelitis.

Comparative transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis of FTO knockout and wild-type porcine iliac artery endothelial cells

The fat mass and obesity associated (FTO) gene, previously identified as a pivotal genetic locus associated with adiposity, has recently been linked to various cancers. In this study, we established an FTO knockout (KO) cell line in porcine iliac artery endothelial cells (PIECs) utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 technology to systematically investigate the gene's function and effect through transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis. Our results revealed significant gene expression and metabolic profiles differences between the FTO KO and wild-type (WT) cells. Furthermore, enrichment analysis highlighted the involvement of differentially expressed genes in metabolic processes, cellular components, and molecular functions, as well as in complement and coagulation cascades, mineral absorption, glutathione metabolism, insulin signaling, fluid shear stress, and atherosclerosis pathways. The metabolomic profiling revealed clear distinctions between the FTO KO and WT cells, indicating profound modifications in cellular metabolism. Correlation analysis of transcriptomic and metabolomic data revealed a significant association between six metabolites and twenty genes, with melatonin showing specific correlations with the expression of several genes, indicating a complex regulatory network between gene expression and metabolic changes. This study provides a foundation for further research on the FTO gene's role in cellular processes and molecular mechanisms underlying physiological and pathological conditions.

Cellular senescence: from homeostasis to pathological implications and therapeutic strategies

Cellular aging is a multifactorial and intricately regulated physiological process with profound implications. The interaction between cellular senescence and cancer is complex and multifaceted, senescence can both promote and inhibit tumor progression through various mechanisms. M6A methylation modification regulates the aging process of cells and tissues by modulating senescence-related genes. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the characteristics of cellular senescence, the signaling pathways regulating senescence, the biomarkers of senescence, and the mechanisms of anti-senescence drugs. Notably, this review also delves into the complex interactions between senescence and cancer, emphasizing the dual role of the senescent microenvironment in tumor initiation, progression, and treatment. Finally, we thoroughly explore the function and mechanism of m6A methylation modification in cellular senescence, revealing its critical role in regulating gene expression and maintaining cellular homeostasis. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive perspective on the molecular mechanisms and biological significance of cellular senescence and offers new insights for the development of anti-senescence strategies.

Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications of Long Non-coding RNAs in Cutaneous Biology and Disease

Human skin is the largest organ of the human body and accounts for approximately fifteen percent of the total bodyweight. Its main physiological role is to protect the body against a wide range of environmental factors including pathogens, ultraviolet light, and injury. Importantly, the skin can regenerate and heal upon injury in large part by the differentiation of keratinocytes. Not surprisingly, dysregulation of cutaneous differentiation and self-renewal can result in a variety of skin-related pathologies, including autoimmune disease and cancer. Increasing evidence supports the premise that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) act as critical mediators of gene expression and regulate important biological processes within the skin. Notably, dysregulation of lncRNAs has been shown to influence diverse physiological and pathological consequences. More recently, numerous reports have revealed new mechanistic insight on the role that lncRNAs play in skin homeostasis as well as their contribution to the pathogenesis of skin-related disorders. Here, we review the biological functions of cutaneous lncRNAs and their impact on skin homeostasis. We also describe the fundamental roles of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of skin-related disorders, including fibrotic, autoimmune, and malignant diseases. Lastly, we will highlight how a better understanding of lncRNAs at the molecular level may reveal novel therapeutic approaches for the improvement of cutaneous disorders.

Cancer immunotherapeutic challenges from autophagy-immune checkpoint reciprocal regulation

Multiple strategies have been clinically employed as combination partners to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Although these combinations have demonstrated improved effectiveness in some instances, each presents its own limitations. Autophagy-targeting therapy offers several advantages when combined with ICIs, including enhanced tumor immunogenicity, reduced side effects, and broader applicability to diverse patient populations. However, emerging evidence reveals complex reciprocal regulation between autophagy and immune checkpoints which may complicate combination treatments targeting these two systems. This review focuses on the reciprocal interplay between autophagy and immune checkpoints, and provides valuable guidelines for the determination and adjustment of therapeutic regimens in the future.

PD-1 blockade treatment in melanoma: Mechanism of response and tumor-intrinsic resistance

Malignant melanoma is characterized by high immunogenicity, genetic heterogeneity, and diverse pathological manifestations, affecting both skin and mucosa over the body. Pembrolizumab and nivolumab, both anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibodies, were approved by the US FDA for unresectable or metastatic melanoma in 2011 and 2014, respectively, with enduring and transformative outcomes. Despite marked clinical achievements, only a subset of patients manifested a complete response. Approximately 55% of melanoma patients exhibited primary resistance to PD-1 antibodies, with nearly 25% developing secondary resistance within 2 years of treatment. Thus, there is a critical need to comprehensively elucidate the mechanisms underlying the efficacy and resistance to PD-1 blockade. This review discusses the fundamental mechanisms of PD-1 blockade, encompassing insights from T cells and B cells, and presents resistance to anti-PD-1 with a particular focus on tumoral-intrinsic mechanisms in melanoma.

FTO-mediated m6A demethylation of SERPINE1 mRNA promotes tumor progression in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

Background

The fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) is implicated in various diseases and acts as a demethylase for the most abundant modification of mRNA, namely N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification. It is known that FTO may play an oncogenic role or a tumor-suppressor role in different malignancies. The aim of this study was to investigate the functional roles of FTO in regulating biological processes related to hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC).

Methods

Using immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and Western blot analysis, we compared the expression levels of FTO in HSCC tissues to adjacent non-cancerous tissues. Furthermore, we evaluated the prognosis of patients with hypopharyngeal cancer in relation to FTO expression levels. In vitro, the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8), wound healing assay, migration and invasion assays were used to identify roles of FTO in HSCC cells FaDu. Tumor xenografts in nude mice were used to disclose the effect of FTO in vivo. Then, transcriptome RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) assays were applied to screen for possible target genes. To confirm the specific site for modulating the expression of the target gene, we used the SRAMP database and methylated RNA immunoprecipitation PCR (MeRIP-PCR).

Results

The results showed that FTO was highly expressed in hypopharyngeal cancer tissues and was correlated with clinicopathology of patients. FTO promoted the proliferation, invasion and migration of hypopharyngeal cancer cells in vitro through its demethylase action. In vivo experiments showed that FTO promoted the growth of subcutaneously implanted tumors of hypopharyngeal cancer cells and their metastasis. Moreover, we revealed that FTO affected the malignant biological behavior of hypopharyngeal cancer cells by regulating the m6A modification level of SERPINE1 mRNA. FTO promoted epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) of hypopharyngeal cancer cells through the SERPINE1 signaling axis.

Conclusions

Our study highlighted the functional significance of the FTO/SERPINE1 axis in tumorigenesis of HSCC. Targeting FTO holds promise as a new therapeutic strategy for HSCC.

Research progress on N6-methyladenosine RNA modification in osteosarcoma: functions, mechanisms, and potential clinical applications

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most commonly diagnosed primary malignant bone tumor in children and adolescents. Despite significant advancements in therapeutic strategies against OS over the past few decades, the prognosis for this disease remains poor, largely due to its high invasiveness and challenges associated with its treatment. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is one of the most abundant epigenetic modifications of RNAs, and many studies have highlighted its crucial role in OS. This article provides a comprehensive summary and introduction to m6A regulators, including methyltransferases, demethylases, and binding proteins. The article emphasizes how regulated m6A modifications can either promote or inhibit OS. It also delves into the mechanisms by which m6A-modified messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) participate in signaling pathways such as the Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT, and STAT3 pathways, and discusses these mechanisms in detail. Given the abnormal expression of m6A regulators in OS, the article also explores their potential applications as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in clinical settings. It is anticipated that this review will provide new insights into the diagnosis and treatment of OS.

FTO effects the proliferation, invasion, and glycolytic metabolism of colon cancer by regulating PKM2

PURPOSE

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO), a genetic variant associated with obesity, significantly impact the energetic metabolism of mechanical tumors. However, research on the function of FTO in CRC is scarce.

METHODS

Bioinformatics analysis of TCGA and UALCAN databases was conducted to examine FTO expression in CRC. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess FTO and PKM2 protein expression in clinical specimens. In vitro experiments utilized five human colon cancer cell lines and a normal colon epithelial cell line, with Western blotting and RT-PCR for protein and mRNA quantification, respectively, and lentiviral transfection to modulate FTO expression. Cellular behaviors such as proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis were evaluated using various assays. Immunofluorescence and Seahorse Xfe96 metabolic analysis were employed to study PKM2 expression changes and glycolytic stress. The effects of PKM2 inhibition by shikonin on cell viability and glycolytic activity were assessed using CCK-8 assay and Seahorse analysis.

RESULTS

An upregulation of FTO was observed in colon cancer through data mining and analysis of pathological specimens. Besides, we discovered that the impact of FTO on colon cancer glycolysis has significant implications for colon proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. The protein expression of PKM2 and the intensity of fluorescence staining in the nucleus of PKM2 were detected to be increased in colon carcinoma cells with over-expression of FTO.

CONCLUSION

FTO plays a significant role in CRC progression by regulating PKM2 and promoting glycolysis.

TTC7B triggers the PI4KA-AKT1-RXRA-FTO axis and inhibits colon cancer cell proliferation by increasing RNA methylation

TTC7B is the PI4KA-binding protein. The upstream regulatory network associated with the expression of genes involved in RNA N6-adenine (m6A) methylation is not clear. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the expression levels of TTC7B, PI4KA, and FTO are positively correlated with each other across human tissues. These genes are consistently downregulated in many cancers. We initially confirmed the correlation of the expression of these genes in colon cancer tissues from patients (n=105) and reported that TTC7B downregulation was significantly associated with poor prognosis. We subsequently performed a series of biological experiments and demonstrated that TTC7B upregulated RXRA expression probably through the PI4KA-mediated AKT1 pathway and that RXRA was a transcription factor for the FTO gene. TTC7B inhibited the proliferation of colon cancer cells by increasing the recruitment of RXRA to the FTO promoter, increasing FTO expression, and decreasing the total RNA m6A level. Ablation of FTO demethylase activity completely abolished the inhibitory effect of TTC7B on the proliferation of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, our study demonstrated for the first time that TTC7B triggers the RXRA-FTO axis through PI4KA binding, which leads to a decrease in total RNA m6A modification and the inhibition of colon cancer progression.

hnRNPU-mediated pathogenic alternative splicing drives gastric cancer progression

BACKGROUND

Alternative splicing (AS) is a process that facilitates the differential inclusion of exonic sequences from precursor messenger RNAs, significantly enhancing the diversity of the transcriptome and proteome. In cancer, pathogenic AS events are closely related to cancer progression. This study aims to investigate the role and regulatory mechanisms of AS in gastric cancer (GC).

METHODS

We analyzed AS events in various tumor samples and identified hnRNPU as a key splicing factor in GC. The effects of hnRNPU on cancer progression were assessed through in vitro and in vivo experiments. Gene knockout models and the FTO inhibitor (meclofenamic acid) were used to validate the interaction between hnRNPU and FTO and their impact on AS.

RESULTS

We found that hnRNPU serves as a key splicing factor in GC, and its high expression is associated with poor clinical prognosis. Genetic depletion of hnRNPU significantly reduced GC progression. Mechanistically, the m6A demethylase FTO interacts with hnRNPU transcripts, decreasing the m6A modification levels of hnRNPU, which leads to exon 14 skipping of the MET gene, thereby promoting GC progression. The FTO inhibitor meclofenamic acid effectively inhibited GC cell growth both in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSION

The FTO/hnRNPU axis induces aberrant exon skipping of MET, thereby promoting GC cell growth. Targeting the FTO/hnRNPU axis may interfere with abnormal AS events and provide a potential diagnostic and therapeutic strategy for GC.

RNA N6-Methyladenosine-Binding Protein YTHDFs Redundantly Attenuate Cancer Immunity by Downregulating IFN-γ Signaling in Gastric Cancer

Immunotherapy holds potential as a treatment for gastric cancer (GC), though immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) resistance remains an obstacle. One resistance mechanism involves defects in interferon-γ (IFN-γ) signaling, in which IFN-γ is linked to improved responsiveness to ICIs. Herein, the roles of RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications in regulation of IFN-γ signaling and the responsiveness to ICIs are unveiled. The m6A-binding protein YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA-binding protein F1 (YTHDF1) is overexpressed in GC tissues, correlating with the suppression of cancer immunity and poorer survival rates. YTHDF1 overexpression impaired the responsiveness to IFN-γ in GC cells, and knockdown studies indicated the redundant effects of YTHDF2 and YTHDF3 with YTHDF1 in IFN-γ responsiveness. RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing revealed YTHDFs directly target interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1) mRNA, a master regulator of IFN-γ signaling, leading to reduced RNA stability and consequent downregulation of IFN-γ signaling. Furthermore, in mouse syngeneic tumor models, Ythdf1 depletion in cancer cells resulted in reduced tumor growth and increased tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, which are attributed to the augmentation of IFN-γ signaling. Collectively, these findings highlight how YTHDFs modulate cancer immunity by influencing IFN-γ signaling through IRF1 regulation, suggesting their viability as therapeutic targets in cancer immunotherapy.

Highly sequence-specific, timing-controllable m6A demethylation by modulating RNA-binding affinity of m6A erasers

Recent advancements in tools using programmable RNA binding proteins and m6A-erasers enable sequence-selective and timing-controllable m6A demethylation. However, off-target effects are still a concern. This study addresses the problem by reducing the RNA-binding ability of m6A-erasers. The modulated m6A-erasers achieved sequence-specific and timing-controllable m6A demethylation with minimal off-target activity.

Targeting DTX2/UFD1-mediated FTO degradation to regulate antitumor immunity

Here, we show that vitamin E succinate (VES) acts as a degrader for the m6A RNA demethylase fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO), thus suppressing tumor growth and resistance to immunotherapy. FTO is ubiquitinated by its E3 ligase DTX2, followed by UFD1 recruitment and subsequent degradation in the proteasome. VES binds to FTO and DTX2, leading to enhanced FTO-DTX2 interaction, FTO ubiquitination, and degradation in FTO-dependent tumor cells. VES suppressed tumor growth and enhanced antitumor immunity and response to immunotherapy in vivo in mouse models. Genetic FTO knockdown or VES treatment increased m6A methylation in the LIF (Leukemia Inhibitory Factor) gene and decreased LIF mRNA decay, and thus sensitized melanoma cells to T cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Taken together, our findings reveal the underlying molecular mechanism for FTO protein degradation and identify a dietary degrader for FTO that inhibits tumor growth and overcomes immunotherapy resistance.

Bibliometric analysis and visualization of the research on the relationship between RNA methylation and immune cell infiltration in tumors

Background

This research endeavors to delve into the research hotspots and trends concerning RNA methylation and tumor immune cells through the application of bibliometric analysis and visualization techniques.

Methods

A comprehensive search in WoSCC (2014-2023) for RNA methylation and tumor immune cell articles/reviews was conducted. Bibliometric analysis and visualization employed CiteSpace, Bibliometric, and VOSviewer tools.

Results

A total of 3295 articles were included in the analysis, with a continuously increasing number of publications linking RNA methylation to tumoral immune cells. Chinese authors and research institutions have demonstrated a sustained growth trend in both the number of publications and author influence. SUN YAT SEN UNIVERSITY, a Chinese institution, has published the highest number of articles in this field, while also demonstrating extensive international and inter-institutional collaborations. Meanwhile, HARVARD UNIVERSITY has also achieved impressive results. For instance, Frontiers in Immunology has published the largest number of articles in this category. Nature Communications has published articles that are most influential in this field, playing a pivotal role in disseminating research findings. The sustained vitality of this field is attributed to its solid research foundation, including the groundbreaking work published by Professor Chiappinelli KB in Cell and the widely cited paper by Professor Han DL in Nature. Analysis of research trend topics reveals that m5C, immunotherapy, and the immune microenvironment are current research focuses.

Conclusion

Future investigative efforts at the juncture of RNA methylation and tumor immune cells are anticipated to concentrate on domains including m5C, n7-methylguanosine, cuproptosis, prognosis assessment, immunotherapeutic strategies, and the tumor microenvironment.

Targeting the oncogenic m6A demethylase FTO suppresses tumourigenesis and potentiates immune response in hepatocellular carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO), an eraser of N 6-methyadenosine (m6A), plays oncogenic roles in various cancers. However, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unclear. Furthermore, small extracellular vesicles (sEVs, or exosomes) are critical mediators of tumourigenesis and metastasis, but the relationship between FTO-mediated m6A modification and sEVs in HCC is unknown.

DESIGN

The functions and mechanisms of FTO and glycoprotein non-metastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB) in HCC progression were investigated in vitro and in vivo. Neutralising antibody of syndecan-4 (SDC4) was used to assess the significance of sEV-GPNMB. FTO inhibitor CS2 was used to examine the effects on anti-PD-1 and sorafenib treatment.

RESULTS

FTO expression was upregulated in patient HCC tumours. Functionally, FTO promoted HCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro, and tumour growth and metastasis in vivo. FTO knockdown enhanced the activation and recruitment of tumour-infiltrating CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, we identified GPNMB to be a downstream target of FTO, which reduced the m6A abundance of GPNMB, hence, stabilising it from degradation by YTH N 6-methyladenosine RNA binding protein F2. Of note, GPNMB was packaged into sEVs derived from HCC cells and bound to the surface receptor SDC4 of CD8+ T cells, resulting in the inhibition of CD8+ T cell activation. A potential FTO inhibitor, CS2, suppresses the oncogenic functions of HCC cells and enhances the sensitivity of anti-PD-1 and sorafenib treatment.

CONCLUSION

Targeting the FTO/m6A/GPNMB axis could significantly suppress tumour growth and metastasis, and enhance immune activation, highlighting the potential of targeting FTO signalling with effective inhibitors for HCC therapy.

Assembly of Dandelion-Like Nanoprobe for Sensitive Detection of N6-Methyladenosine Demethylase by Single-Molecule Counting

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) demethylase is essential for enzymatically removing methyl groups from m6A modifications and is significantly implicated in the pathogenesis and advancement of various cancers, which makes it a promising biomarker for cancer detection and research. As a proof of concept, we select the fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) as the target m6A demethylase and develop a dandelion-like nanoprobe-based sensing platform by employing biobar-code amplification (BCA) for signal amplification. We construct two meticulously designed three-dimensional structures: reporter-loaded gold nanoparticles (Reporter@Au NPs) and substrate-loaded magnetic microparticles (Substrate@MMPs), which can self-assemble to form dandelion-like nanoprobes via complementary base pairing. In the presence of FTO, the m6A-containing substrates are demethylated, triggering the MazF-assisted cleavage reaction and thereby releasing the Reporter@Au NPs. Furthermore, upon digestion by exonucleases, the Reporter@Au NPs may liberate a significant quantity of Cy3 signals. Remarkably, the combined effects of Au NPs' superior enrichment capacity, MMPs' exceptional magnetic separation efficiency, and the precision of the single-molecule detection platform endow the FTO sensor with exceptional sensitivity and specificity with a detection limit of 7.46 × 10-16 M. Additionally, this method offers a versatile platform for the detection of m6A demethylase and the screening of corresponding inhibitors, thereby advancing clinical diagnosis and drug development.

FTO-mediated demethylation of MTUS1/ATIP1 promotes tumor progression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has been recognized as the seventh most prevalent malignant tumor globally. It is a malignant neoplasm that arises from the mucosal epithelium of head and neck region. In our previous research, we have demonstrated that MTUS1/ATIP1 exhibits anti-cancer properties in HNSCC. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanism responsible for the reduction of MTUS1/ATIP1 expression has not been investigated.

METHODS

HNSCC and adjacent normal tissues were collected and examined using m6A MeRIP-seq, qRT-PCR, and IHC to investigate the relationship between MTUS1/ATIP1 and FTO. MeRIP-qPCR, m6A dot blot, RNA and protein stability assays, and RNC-qRT-PCR were employed to elucidate the mechanism by which FTO mediates demethylation of MTUS1/ATIP1 in HNSCC. Functional assays, subcutaneous tumorigenesis, and in situ tongue cancer models were conducted to assess the impact of the FTO-MTUS1/ATIP1 pathway on proliferative capacity of HNSCC tumors.

RESULTS

FTO was observed to be markedly upregulated and showed a negative correlation with MTUS1/ATIP1 expression in HNSCC. FTO was responsible for mediating m6A demethylation in the 3'UTR of MTUS1/ATIP1, leading to its degradation. Additionally, silencing MTUS1/ATIP1 successfully reversed the tumor-promoting effects on HNSCC triggered by FTO in in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research elucidated the functional importance of FTO-mediated m6A demethylation of MTUS1/ATIP1, suggesting that targeting the FTO-MTUS1/ATIP1 axis could be a prospective novel approach for treating HNSCC.

Harnessing m1A modification: a new frontier in cancer immunotherapy

N1-methyladenosine (m1A) modification is an epigenetic change that occurs on RNA molecules, regulated by a suite of enzymes including methyltransferases (writers), demethylases (erasers), and m1A-recognizing proteins (readers). This modification significantly impacts the function of RNA and various biological processes by affecting the structure, stability, translation, metabolism, and gene expression of RNA. Thereby, m1A modification is closely associated with the occurrence and progression of cancer. This review aims to explore the role of m1A modification in tumor immunity. m1A affects tumor immune responses by directly regulating immune cells and indirectly modulating tumor microenvironment. Besides, we also discuss the implications of m1A-mediated metabolic reprogramming and its nexus with immune checkpoint inhibitors, unveiling promising avenues for immunotherapeutic intervention. Additionally, the m1AScore, established based on the expression patterns of m1A modification, can be used to predict tumor prognosis and guide personalized therapy. Our review underscores the significance of m1A modification as a burgeoning frontier in cancer biology and immuno-oncology, with the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment strategies.

The Roles of RNA N6-methyladenosine Modifications in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most widespread RNA internal modification involved in RNA metabolism. M6A regulators consist of writers, erasers and readers. They exert their function by methylation, demethylation and recognization respectively, participating in cell biology and immune responses. Previously, the focus of m6A modification is its effect on tumor progress. Currently, extensive m6A-related studies have been performed in autoimmune diseases, such as RA, IBD and SLE, revealing that the unique influence of m6A modification in autoimmunity is undeniable. In this review, we summarize the function of m6A regulators, analyze their roles in pathogenic immune cells, summarize the m6A modification in SLE, and provide the potential m6A-targeting therapies for autoimmune diseases.

FTO promotes gefitinib-resistance by enhancing PELI3 expression and autophagy in non-small cell lung cancer

The established recognition of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification as an indispensable regulatory agent in human cancer is widely accepted. However, the understanding of m6A's role and the mechanisms underlying its contribution to gefitinib resistance is notably limited. Herein, using RT-qPCR, Western blot, Cell proliferation and apoptosis, as well as RNA m6A modification assays, we substantiated that heightened FTO (Fat Mass and Obesity-associated protein) expression substantially underpins the emergence of gefitinib resistance in NSCLC cells. This FTO-driven gefitinib resistance is hinged upon the co-occurrence of PELI3 (Pellino E3 Ubiquitin Protein Ligase Family Member 3) expression and concurrent autophagy activation. Manipulation of PELI3 expression and autophagy activation, including its attenuation, was efficacious in both inducing and overcoming gefitinib resistance within NSCLC cells, as validated in vitro and in vivo. In summary, this study has successfully elucidated the intricate interplay involving FTO-mediated m6A modification, its consequential downstream effect on PELI3, and the concurrent involvement of autophagy in fostering the emergence of gefitinib resistance within the therapeutic context of NSCLC.

Exploring m6A methylation in skin Cancer: Insights into molecular mechanisms and treatment

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common and prevalent internal mRNA modification in eukaryotes. m6A modification is a dynamic and reversible process regulated by methyltransferases, demethylases, and m6A binding proteins. Skin cancers, including melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), are among the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide. m6A methylation is involved in the regulation of RNA splicing, translation, degradation, stability, translocation, export, and folding. Aberrant m6A modification participates in the pathophysiological processes of skin cancers and is associated with tumor cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and metastasis during cancer progression. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the biological functions of m6A and the most up-to-date evidence related to m6A RNA modification in skin cancer. We also emphasize the potential clinical applications in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers.

Dynamic multilayered control of m6A RNA demethylase activity

Similar to DNA and histone, RNA can also be methylated. In its most common form, a N6-methyladenosine (m6A) chemical modification is introduced into nascent messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) by a specialized methyltransferase complex and removed by the RNA demethylases, Fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO), and ALKBH5. The fate of m6A-marked mRNA is uniquely diverse, ranging from degradation to stabilization/translation, which has been suggested to be largely dependent on its interaction with the family of YT521-B homology (YTH) domain-containing proteins. Here, we highlight a series of control levers that impinge on the RNA demethylases. We present evidence to indicate that intermediary metabolism and various posttranslation modifications modulate the activity, stability, and the subcellular localization of FTO and ALKBH5, further dispelling the notion that m6A methylation is not a dynamic process. We also discuss how examination of these underappreciated regulatory nodes adds a more nuanced view of the role of FTO and ALKBH5 and should guide their study in cancer and nonmalignant conditions alike.

Fat Mass and Obesity-Associated Protein Regulates Granulosa Cell Aging by Targeting Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 Gene Via an N6-Methyladenosine-YT521-B Homology Domain Family Member 2-Dependent Pathway in Aged Mice

In this study, we aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms of RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and how its associated proteins affect granulosa cell aging. A granulosa cell senescence model was constructed to detect the differences in total RNA m6A modification levels and the expression of related enzymes. Changes in downstream molecular expression and the effects on the cellular senescence phenotype were explored by repeatedly knocking down and overexpressing the key genes fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO), YT521-B homology domain family member 2 (YTHDF2), and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2). There was an increased total RNA m6A modification and decreased expression of the demethylase FTO and target gene MMP2 in senescent granulosa cells. FTO and MMP2 knockdown promoted granulosa cell senescence, whereas FTO and MMP2 overexpression retarded it. YTHDF2 and FTO can bind to the messenger RNA of MMP2. The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway, which is downstream of MMP2, retarded the process of granulosa cell senescence through ERK activators. In granulosa cells, FTO can regulate the expression of MMP2 in an m6A-YTHDF2-dependent manner, influencing the activation status of the ERK pathway and contributing to the aging process of granulosa cells.

Targeting METTL3 as a checkpoint to enhance T cells for tumour immunotherapy

BACKGROUND

Immunotherapy has emerged as a crucial treatment modality for solid tumours, yet tumours often evade immune surveillance. There is an imperative to uncover novel immune regulators that can boost tumour immunogenicity and increase the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. Epigenetic regulators play critical roles in tumour microenvironment remodelling, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is known to be involved in tumourigenesis. However, the role of m6A in regulating T-cell function and enhancing anti-tumour immunity remains unexplored.

METHODS

Several cancer cell lines were treated with STM2457, an enzymatic inhibitor of RNA m6A methyltransferase METTL3, and explored the transcriptome changes with RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). We then utilised mouse melanoma (B16) and mouse colorectal adenocarcinoma (MC38) models to investigate the effects of METTL3 inhibition on immunotherapy, and analysed the dynamics of the tumour microenvironment via single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq). Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo T-cell cytotoxicity killing assay and CRISPR Cas9-mediated m6A reader YTHDF1-3 knockout in B16 were performed to assess the role and the molecular mechanism of RNA m6A in tumour killing. Finally, the efficacy of METTL3 inhibition was also tested on human melanoma model (A375) and human T cells.

RESULTS

We demonstrate that inhibiting METTL3 augments tumour immunogenicity and sustains T-cell function, thereby enhancing responsiveness to ICB therapy. Mechanistically, METTL3 inhibition triggers an interferon response within tumour cells, amplifying the anti-tumour immune response, along with deletion of the m6A reader protein YTHDF2 in tumours inhibiting major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-I degradation. Remarkably, these anti-tumour effects are reliant on the immune system. Specifically, METTL3 inhibition enhances interferon-gamma (IFNγ) and granzyme B (GzmB) expression, thereby strengthening T-cell killing ability, and concurrently dampening the expression of exhaustion-related genes.

CONCLUSION

Targeting METTL3 enhances anti-tumour immunity by boosting T-cell cytotoxicity and reversing T-cell exhaustion. Our study positions METTL3 as an epigenetic checkpoint, highlighting the potential of targeting METTL3 to invigorate intrinsic anti-tumour defenses and overcome immune resistance.

KEY POINTS

Targeting METTL3 augments tumour cell immunogenicity and sustains T-cell function. T cell with METTL3 inhibition can reverse T-cell exhaustion, and promote expression of IFNγ and GzmB, thereby enhancing cytotoxicity in anti-PD-1 therapy. YTHDF2 deletion in tumours prolong the lifespan of MHC-I mRNAs.

Epigenetics of Conjunctival Melanoma: Current Knowledge and Future Directions

The purpose of this article is to provide a literature review of the epigenetic understanding of conjunctival melanoma (CM), with a primary focus on current gaps in knowledge and future directions in research. CM is a rare aggressive cancer that predominantly affects older adults. Local recurrences and distant metastases commonly occur in CM patients; however, their prediction and management remain challenging. Hence, there is currently an unmet need for useful biomarkers and more effective treatments to improve the clinical outcomes of these patients. Like other cancers, CM occurrence and prognosis are believed to be influenced by multiple genetic and epigenetic factors that contribute to tumor development/progression/recurrence/spread, immune evasion, and primary/acquired resistance to therapies. Epigenetic alterations may involve changes in chromatin conformation/accessibility, post-translational histone modifications or the use of histone variants, changes in DNA methylation, alterations in levels/functions of short (small) or long non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), or RNA modifications. While recent years have witnessed a rapid increase in available epigenetic technologies and epigenetic modulation-based treatment options, which has enabled the development/implementation of various epi-drugs in the cancer field, the epigenetic understanding of CM remains limited due to a relatively small number of epigenetic studies published to date. These studies primarily investigated DNA methylation, ncRNA (e.g., miRNA or circRNA) expression, or RNA methylation. While these initial epigenetic investigations have revealed some potential biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets, they had various limitations, and their findings warrant replication in independent and larger studies/samples. In summary, an in-depth understanding of CM epigenetics remains largely incomplete but essential for advancing our molecular knowledge and improving clinical management/outcomes of this aggressive disease.

Qiju Dihuang Pill protects the lens epithelial cells via alleviating cuproptosis in diabetic cataract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Qiju Dihuang Pill (QDP) is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription for the treatment of eye diseases. Novel literature reports that copper-induced cell death, called as cuproptosis, is a copper-dependent and differs distinctly from other types of cell death.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study aims to investigate whether QDP could protect lens epithelial cells via alleviating copper-induced death in diabetic cataract.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The different concentration of QDP medicated serum was administrated on high glucose (HG)-induced human lens epithelial cells (HLECs). The copper concentration was tested using Elabscience Copper Assay kit. The proliferation was detected using CCK-8 and EdU assays. The molecular binding was identified using RIP-PCR and luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

Results indicated that HG culture condition triggered the copper concentration and repressed the proliferation of HLECs. Then, the elesclomol-Cu (Es-Cu) administration up-regulated the copper concentration and inhibited the proliferation, and cuproptosis inhibitor tetrathiomolybdate (TTM) could specifically reverse the consequence. QDP treatment reduced the copper concentration and cuproptosis-related genes (SLC31A1, FDX1). MeRIP-Seq and RIP-PCR confirmed that QDP reduced the stability of SLC31A1 mRNA through m6A modified site, and copper actually synergized the molecular binding efficiency. Rescue assay verified the role of QDP and SLC31A1 on HLECs' cuproptosis characteristic.

CONCLUSION

This research identified the protective role of QDP on HG-induced HLECs in DC through decreasing m6A/SLC31A1-mediated cuproptosis in DC. This finding provides novel insights into mechanisms for QDP and sheds light on the multifaceted role of traditional prescription on DC.