A dynamic reversible RNA N⁶‐methyladenosine modification: current status and perspectives

N⁶ -methyladenosine (m⁶ A), as the most abundant RNA epigenetic modifications, has been shown to play critical roles in various biological functions. Research about enzymes that can catalyze and remove m⁶ A have revealed its comprehensive roles in messenger RNA (mRNA) metabolism and other physiological processes. The "readers" including YTH domain-containing proteins, hnRNPC, hnRNPG, hnRNPA2B1, IGF2BP1, IGF2BP2, and IGF2BP3, which can affect the fates of mRNA in an m⁶ A-dependent manner. In this review, we focus on recent advances in the research of the m⁶ A modifications, especially about the latest functions of its writers, erasers, readers in RNA metabolism, cancer, and lipid metabolism. In the end, we provide insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of m⁶ A modifications.