Figure 1.

Functions of m⁶A modification in mRNA. Writer proteins deposit m⁶A remarks in newborn mRNAs transcript from DNA.The m⁶A signal deposited in mRNA can adjust the local flanking sequences by the m⁶A flag installed in the mRNA and recruit YTHDC1, which manipulates mRNA alternative splicing and nuclear export. The mRNA labeling m⁶A can recruit IGF2BPs to stabilize the mRNA in the nucleus. After penetrating the cytoplasm, the m⁶A-labeled mRNA produces sophisticated and far-reaching biological effects. IGF2BP1/2/3 proteins recognize the m⁶A remark embedded in mRNA, influencing the mRNA stability. On the contrary, m⁶A deposited in mRNA can recruit YTHDF2/3, promoting target mRNA degradation. In addition, the presence of an m⁶A modified mRNA regulates target mRNA translation and, consequently protein synthesis. The binding of eIF3 and m⁶A pockets launches m⁷G-independent translation. The interplay between YTHDF2 and m⁶A sites existing in mRNA enhances translation elongation. YTHDF1/3 or YTHDC2 perceive m⁶A pockets, and promotes target mRNA translation initiation.