Epigenetic regulation of mRNA N6-methyladenosine modifications in mammalian gametogenesis. (6th April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fang, Fang; Wang, Xiao; Li, Zili; Ni, Ke; Xiong, Chengliang
• Is Part Of: Molecular human reproduction. Volume 27:Number 5(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-04-06
• Subjects: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) -- mRNA methylation -- spermatogenesis -- oogenesis -- meiosis -- gametogenesis -- reproductive system -- epigenetic modification; Human reproduction -- Molecular aspects -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 612.6
• DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab025
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-9947

Abstract

Abstract: N 6 -methyladenosine (m 6 A) is the most prevalent epigenetic modification of mRNAs and broadly influences various biological processes by regulating post-transcriptional gene expression in eukaryotes. The reversible m 6 A modification is catalyzed by methyltransferases, METTL3 and METTL14 (writers), removed by the demethylases FTO and ALKBH5 (erasers) and recognized by m 6 A-binding proteins, namely the YTH domain-containing family of proteins (readers). Both m 6 A modification and the related enzymes are involved in the regulation of normal gametogenesis and embryonic development in many species. Recent studies showed that loss of m 6 A compromises gamete maturation, sex hormone synthesis, fertility and early embryonic development. In this review, we have summarized the most recent findings on the role of mRNA m 6 A modification in mammalian gametogenesis to emphasize the epigenetic regulation of mRNA in the reproductive system.