Anti-N6-methyladenosine (m6A) antibody

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a chemical modification present in RNA molecules specifically marking the adenosine base with a methyl group at the nitrogen-6 position. This modification weighing approximately 14 Da occurs in diverse eukaryotic species and influences RNA metabolism. m6A methylation can be detected using techniques like m6A dots blot or m6A ELISA. The modification is abundant in tissues like the brain and testis reflecting its critical role in varying cell types. Also m6A is known as a dynamic and reversible mark with its levels continuously adjusted by enzymes called writers (methyltransferases) erasers (demethylases) and readers (RNA-binding proteins).

Biological function summary

M6A methylation affects mRNA processing stability translation and decay. It integrates into large multi-protein complexes where it influences gene expression outcomes by affecting the RNA's interaction with the cellular machinery. This methylation modification acts as a regulatory signal that influences essential processes such as cell differentiation and circadian rhythms. Elucidating the biological functions of m6A involves studying how it affects RNA fate and its downstream gene regulatory networks.

Pathways

M6A modification is central to the mRNA metabolic pathway and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. It interacts with various proteins such as METTL3 an m6A methyltransferase which is vital for mediating m6A modification. It also interacts with YTH domain-containing proteins that recognize m6A marks influencing transcript dynamics and gene expression. The interplay of m6A with proteins in these pathways underlines its role in fine-tuning cellular processes and responses.

M6A modification has a significant impact on cancer and neurological disorders. In cancers alterations in m6A methylation patterns can promote oncogenic transformation and metastasis. m6A-related proteins such as FTO an m6A demethylase have shown connections to these pathways affecting cancer progression. In neurological disorders m6A impacts aspects of neural development and function and abnormalities in its regulation may contribute to diseases like Alzheimer's. Understanding the roles of m6A in diverse diseases can pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches.