Regulatory role and mechanism of m(6)A RNA modification in human metabolic diseases

Metabolic diseases caused by disorders in amino acids, glucose, lipid metabolism, and other metabolic risk factors show high incidences in young people, and current treatments are ineffective. N(6)-methyladenosine (m(6)A) RNA modification is a post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression with several effects on physiological processes and biological functions. Recent studies report that m(6)A RNA modification is involved in various metabolic pathways and development of common metabolic diseases, making it a potential disease-specific therapeutic target. This review explores components, mechanisms, and research methods of m(6)A RNA modification. In addition, we summarize the progress of research on m(6)A RNA modification in metabolism-related human diseases, including diabetes, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, osteoporosis, and cancer. Furthermore, opportunities and the challenges facing basic research and clinical application of m(6)A RNA modification in metabolism-related human diseases are discussed. This review is meant to enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms, research methods, and clinical significance of m(6)A RNA modification in metabolism-related human diseases.