A-to-I RNA editing in hematologic immunity and malignancy

Abstract

Blood cells exhibit a profound relationship with RNA editing, particularly adenosine deaminase acting on RNA 1 (ADAR1)-dependent adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing, impacting immune cell activity, hematologic malignancy, and ultimately determining the efficacy of treatment options such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This review highlights the myriad roles A-to-I RNA editing plays in leukocytes, with particular focus on its regulation of immune cell development and maturation, and how its dysregulation contributes to malignant hematopoiesis. With the growing implementation of ICIs as cancer therapeutics, it is imperative to take stock of our understanding of A-to-I RNA editing in immune cells to improve cancer treatment modalities.