Multilevel regulation of N(6)-methyladenosine RNA modifications: Implications in tumorigenesis and therapeutic opportunities

N(6)-methyladenosine (m(6)A) RNA modification is widely perceived as the most abundant and common modification in transcripts. This modification is dynamically regulated by specific m(6)A “writers”, “erasers” and “readers” and is reportedly involved in the occurrence and development of many diseases. Since m(6)A RNA modification was discovered in the 1970s, with the progress of relevant research technologies, an increasing number of functions of m(6)A have been reported, and a preliminary understanding of m(6)A has been obtained. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms through which m(6)A RNA modification is regulated from the perspectives of expression, posttranslational modification and protein interaction. In addition, we also summarize how external and internal environmental factors affect m(6)A RNA modification and its functions in tumors. The mechanisms through which m(6)A methylases, m(6)A demethylases and m(6)A-binding proteins are regulated are complicated and have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, we hope to promote further research in this field by summarizing these mechanisms and look forward to the future application of m(6)A in tumors.