NSUN5 and RNA m5C epitranscriptomic regulation in tumor progression

NSUN5 is a pivotal RNA 5-methylcytosine (m5C) methyltransferase that predominantly catalyzes site-specific m5C modifications in ribosomal RNA (rRNA), thereby regulating ribosome assembly, selective translation, and cellular stress adaptation. Recent studies have demonstrated that NSUN5 is aberrantly expressed in multiple cancer types, and its upregulation is often associated with advanced tumor stage, poor prognosis, and immune evasion. Mechanistically, NSUN5 modulates the m5C modification of rRNA or specific mRNAs, reshaping the cellular proteome and influencing tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and stemness maintenance. Moreover, NSUN5 participates in tumor metabolic reprogramming, including glycolysis and lipid biosynthesis, as well as in cellular stress responses and resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. NSUN5 can also mediate tumor microenvironmental regulation through RNA modifications, such as modulating macrophage polarization, enhancing antioxidative capacity, and facilitating immune escape. Functional crosstalk exists between NSUN5 and other RNA epigenetic regulators, forming a complex regulatory network. Given its central role and structural features, NSUN5 represents a potential therapeutic target and biomarker. Direct strategies include small-molecule inhibitors that block its methyltransferase activity, whereas indirect approaches focus on interfering with downstream signaling pathways or synergizing with other RNA modifications to inhibit tumor progression. Additionally, NSUN5 expression may serve as a stratification marker for patient classification and treatment response prediction, supporting precision oncology. Future research should focus on genome-wide target identification, integration of single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, and mechanism-driven drug development to advance the clinical translation of NSUN5-targeted interventions.