The role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in plants.

Abstract

N⁶-methyladenosine (m⁶A) modification is the most prevalent chemical modification identified in eukaryotic mRNA molecules, playing a pivotal role in plant growth, development, and responses to both biotic and abiotic stresses. m⁶A modification is co-regulated by methyltransferases and demethylases, with recognition proteins specifically binding to m⁶A modification sites to carry out more precise regulatory functions. This paper provides an overview of the discovery of m⁶A, its distribution patterns in plants, analyzes the molecular mechanisms underlying m⁶A modification, and compares the advantages and disadvantages of various detection techniques for m⁶A. Furthermore, we offer an extensive analysis of the roles of m⁶A modification in regulating plant growth and development, as well as its role in stress responses. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and propose perspective for future research. This work serves as a valuable reference for further research on plant m⁶A.