Cross-regulation of RNA Methylation Modifications and R-loops: from Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Implications

Overview

Journal Cell Mol Life Sci

Publisher Springer

Specialty Biology

Date 2024 Dec 10

PMID 39656315

Authors

Yuqing Wu

Shen Lin

Hong Chen

Xiangyi Zheng

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

R-loops, RNA-DNA hybrid structures, are integral to key cellular processes such as transcriptional regulation, DNA replication, and repair. However, aberrant accumulation of R-loops can compromise genomic integrity, leading to the development of various diseases. Emerging evidence underscores the pivotal role of RNA methylation modifications, particularly N6-methyladenosine (mA) and 5-methylcytosine (mC), in orchestrating the formation, resolution, and stabilization of R-loops. These modifications dynamically regulate R-loop metabolism, exerting bidirectional control by either facilitating or resolving R-loop structures during gene expression regulation and DNA damage repair. Dysregulation of RNA methylation and the resultant imbalance in R-loop homeostasis are closely linked to the pathogenesis of diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Thus, deciphering the cross-talk between RNA methylation and R-loops is essential for understanding the mechanisms underlying genomic stability and identifying novel therapeutic targets. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the role of RNA methylation in R-loop dynamics, examines their physiological and pathological implications, and proposes future directions for therapeutic intervention targeting these processes.

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