N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification: Emerging regulators in plant-virus interactions

Abstract

N6-methyladenosine (m6A), a reversible epigenetic modification, is widely present on both cellular and viral RNAs. This modification undergoes catalysis by methyltransferases (writers), removal by demethylases (erasers), and recognition by m6A-binding proteins (readers), ultimately influencing the fate and function of modified RNA molecules. With recent advances in sequencing technologies, the genome-wide mapping of m6A has become possible, enabling a deeper exploration of its roles during viral infections. So far, while the significance of m6A in regulating virus-host interactions has been well-established in animal viruses, research on its involvement in plant viruses remains in its early stages. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the functions and molecular mechanisms of m6A in plant-virus interactions. A better understanding of these complex interactions may provide valuable insights for developing novel antiviral strategies, potentially leading to more effective control of plant viral diseases in the field.

Keywords: N6-methyladenosine (m6A); Plant virus; Plant-virus interactions; RNA methylation; Viral RNAs.