m6A modification and its role in neural development and neurological diseases

Abstract

N⁶-methyladenosine (m⁶A) methylation, the most prevalent post-transcriptional modification in eukaryotes, represents a highly dynamic and reversible process that is regulated by m⁶A methyltransferases, m⁶A demethylases and RNA-binding proteins during RNA metabolism, which affects RNA function. Notably, m⁶A modification is significantly enriched in the brain and exerts regulatory roles in neurogenesis and neurodevelopment through various mechanisms, further influencing the occurrence and progression of neurological disorders. This study systematically summarizes and discusses the latest findings on common m⁶A regulators, examining their expression, function and mechanisms in neurodevelopment and neurological diseases. Additionally, we explore the potential of m⁶A modification in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders, aiming to provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders.

Keywords: biomarker; m6A modification; neurodevelopment; neurological disease.