TRMT6-mediated tRNA m1A modification acts as a translational checkpoint of histone synthesis and facilitates colorectal cancer progression.

Abstract

Transfer RNA modifications have emerged as critical regulators of translational reprogramming, yet their roles in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain largely elusive. Here, we find that tRNA N1-methyladenosine (m¹A) methyltransferase TRMT6 is upregulated in human CRC tissues and high TRMT6 expression correlates with poor survival in patients with CRC. Using orthotopic, metastatic and conditional knockout mouse models, we establish the oncogenic role of TRMT6 in CRC. Mechanistically, TRMT6 increases tRNA m¹A levels by maintaining the stability of the TRMT6-TRMT61A complex. Targeting TRMT6-mediated tRNA m¹A modification in CRC cells destabilizes tRNA-Lys-TTT-1-1 and impairs histone mRNA translation in a codon-biased manner, thereby restricting histone synthesis and hindering cell cycle progression. Our study provides evidence that TRMT6 functions as a translational checkpoint in the accelerated histone synthesis of CRC cells, highlighting TRMT6 as a promising target for potential anti-CRC therapies.