Potential applications of N-6-methyladenosine modification in the prognosis and treatment of cancers via modulating apoptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis

N-6-methyladenosine (m(6)A) is one of the most abundant modifications determining the fate of RNA. Currently, m(6)A modification is tightly connected with tumorigenesis and presents novel promise in clinical applications. Regulated cell death (RCD) is a programmed mechanism that plays a complicated role in malignant transition. Regarding the main forms of RCD, aberrant levels of m(6)A modification have been detected during the progression of apoptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis in several diseases. However, few reviews have elucidated the correlation between m(6)A-modified RCD and carcinogenesis. In this review, we summarize the regulators of m(6)A methylation and their functions in carcinogenesis through an overview of m(6)A-modified RCD. Additionally, we assume the potential role of m(6)A modification regulators as novel biomarkers for chemotherapies and precision medicine. Furthermore, we review the controversies and conflicts in m(6)A explorations and predict future orientations of m(6)A-modified RCD for clinical applications. This article is categorized under: Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs