Cancer, a disease with global impact, is intricately linked to dysregulated gene expression, which is influenced by both genetic mutations and epigenetic changes, including RNA modifications. A comprehensive review published in the journal reveals the significant role of various RNA modifications in cancer development and progression. The review particularly focuses on N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent internal modification in RNA, and its regulatory mechanisms.

m6A modification is catalyzed by "writers," including methyltransferases METTL3, METTL14, and WTAP, and is removed by "erasers" like FTO and ALKBH5. "Readers" such as YTHDF proteins recognize m6A sites and mediate downstream effects, which are crucial for the biological functions of m6A. The review underscores that the levels of m6A and its regulators are often aberrant in cancer, contributing to hallmarks of the disease such as proliferation, survival, metastasis, and drug resistance.