Work

The m6A writers, readers, and erasers regulate plant development and respond to biotic/abiotic stresses

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the predominant internal mRNA modification with dynamic and reversible regulation on almost all aspects of mRNA metabolism, including mRNA stability, splicing, and translation. Three m6A-related proteins 'writers, readers, and erasers' collaborate to regulate the entire process of m6A modification within the organism. The MeRIP-seq technology has expedited research on m6A modifications in plants. Although the distribution of m6A sites varies across plant species, they are predominantly enriched near the stop codon and within the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) of mRNAs. Beyond its essential roles in plant growth and development, m6A also critically regulates plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. This review not only systematically reviews the writers, readers, and erasers associated with m6A modification, but also comprehensively summarizes recent advancements in elucidating the significance of m6A in plant organ development, floral transition, and fruit ripening. Furthermore, we discuss how m6A influences plant-virus relationships and environmental signals. In summary, analyzing m6A modification is expected to show promise in creating crop varieties with enhanced yield, quality, and stress tolerance.

Source: Epigenetics Insights

DOI: 10.48130/epi-0025-0007