ABSTRACT
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, which alters gene expression, is the most prevalent internal modification of eukaryotic mRNA. m6A modification is dynamic and reversible that is regulated by three associated protein groups: methyltransferases or writers, demethylases or erasers, and m6A-binding proteins or readers. m6A modification is involved in all phases of RNA life, from RNA folding and structure, stability, splicing, nuclear export, translational modulation to RNA degradation. Recent findings show that the abnormal level of m6A modification causes aberrant expression of important viral genes. Here, we reviewe m6A role in gene expression and its contribution to the development of human viral diseases. Particularly, we would focus on viruses associated with human diseases including HIV-1, IAV, HBV, HCV, EBV and so on to find a novel approach and provide a new sight for the innovative treatment of human viral diseases.
Subject(s)
Adenosine/analogs & derivatives , RNA, Viral/genetics , Virus Diseases/genetics , Viruses/genetics , Adenosine/metabolism , Humans , Methylation , Methyltransferases/genetics , Methyltransferases/metabolism , RNA Folding , RNA Stability , RNA, Viral/chemistry , RNA, Viral/metabolism , RNA-Binding Proteins/genetics , RNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism , Virus Diseases/metabolism , Virus Diseases/virology , Viruses/metabolismABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most prevalent internal modification of eukaryotic mRNA modulating gene expression. m6A modification is a dynamic reversible process regulated by three protein groups: methyltransferases (writers), demethylases (erasers), and m6A-binding proteins (readers). m6A modification is involved in all phases of RNA metabolism, including RNA folding, stability, splicing, nuclear exporting, translational modulation and degradation. MAIN BODY: In recent years, numerous studies have reported that abnormal m6A modification causes aberrant expression of important viral genes. Herein, we review the role of m6A in viral lifecycle and its contribution to the pathogenesis of human diseases. Particularly, we focus on the viruses associated with human diseases such as HIV-1, IAV, HBV, HCV, EBV and many others. CONCLUSIONS: A better understanding of m6A-virus relationship would provide new insights into the viral replication process and pathogenesis of human diseases caused by viruses. In addition, exploration of the role of m6A in disease-causing viruses will reveal novel approaches for the treatment of such diseases.
