Work

Why does the m6A writer complex require so many proteins?

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The conversion of adenosine to N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common internal modification made to eukaryotic mRNA and is involved in post-transcriptional control of gene expression. When dysregulated, m6A has been linked to a variety of diseases, including cancer. Unlike other RNA methyltransferases, m6A conversion is catalyzed by a multi-protein writer complex with only one catalytic subunit. So why is the m6A writer complex composed of so many proteins? This Unsolved Mystery explores the possible functions of the proteins of the m6A writer complex and discusses why it might require multiple subunits. Understanding the roles of these proteins could provide insight into how m6A is regulated and reveal new strategies for targeting diseases linked to m6A dysregulation.

Source: PLoS Biology

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3003386

Authors: Kiran Pandey, Hui Xian Poh, Samie R. Jaffrey

Institutions: Cornell University, Weill Cornell Medicine

Language: English

Topic: RNA modifications and cancer

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $5,500

Funders: National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development