Unraveling the RNA Tapestry: A Symphony of Innovations in m6A Research Technology

Abstract

This review navigates the evolving landscape of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) research approaches, emphasizing the importance of advanced technology in understanding RNA epigenetics. Beginning with the fundamentals of m6A and the need for high- throughput methods, the investigation progresses from low-throughput approaches to high-throughput technologies, encompassing antibody-dependent and antibody-free sequencing methods, as well as nanopore-based direct mRNA sequencing and computation methods for m6A detection. Spatial techniques and imaging tools for m6A are also introduced in addition. The discussion of their special applications emphasizes the biological significance of absolute quantification, single-nucleotide resolution, single-molecule detection, and single-cell profiling. The review concludes with a vision of ideal approaches that combine current technologies for comprehensive m6A sequencing, with the potential to further our understanding of gene regulation, cellular diversity, and their roles in health and disease.