Internal m 6 A and m 7 G RNA modifications in hematopoietic system and acute myeloid leukemia.

Abstract

Epitranscriptomics focuses on RNA modifications-mediated post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. The current decade has witnessed tremendous progress in understanding the landscapes and biological functions of RNA modifications as prompted by potent analytical approaches. The hematopoietic system provides a lifelong supply of blood cells, and gene expression is tightly modulated during the differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Dysregulation of gene expression during hematopoiesis may lead to severe disorders, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Emerging evidence has indicated the involvement of mRNA modification system in normal hematopoiesis and AML pathogenesis, which led to the accelerating development of small-molecule inhibitors targeting N6-methyladenosine (m 6 A) modification machinery for treatment. Here, we summarize the latest findings and address the state-of-the-art knowledge on the role of m 6 A and N7-methylguanine (m 7 G) in both physiological and pathological conditions in the hematopoietic system. Furthermore, we discuss the therapeutic potential and limitations of cancer treatment targeting m 6 A.