The role and clinical potential of RNA modifications in bladder cancer.

Abstract

Background: Bladder cancer (BC) represents a common malignancy and is characterized by high heterogeneity and complex biological behaviors, which pose substantial challenges to its effective treatment. Mounting evidence highlights the pivotal roles of ribonucleic acid (RNA) modifications, particularly N6-methyladenosine, alongside others such as 1-methyladenosine, 5-methylcytosine, N4-acetylcytidine, and 7-methylguanosine, in the regulation of the proliferation, migration, drug resistance, and immune evasion of BC cells.

Objective: This article comprehensively reviewed the regulatory mechanisms and biological impacts of these RNA modifications in BC, with a focus on the interplay between RNA modifications and immune evasion, as well as their emerging roles in precision medicine. By looking into these underexplored areas, this work provided novel insights into RNA modifications as diagnostic markers, prognostic indicators, and therapeutic targets, paving the way for advancements in BC precision medicine.

Conclusion: RNA modifications impact key processes such as proliferation, migration, drug resistance, and immune evasion of BC cells. Targeting RNA modification pathways offers promising strategies for enhancing the efficacy of current treatments for and overcoming drug resistance of BC.