SHMT2 promotes the tumorigenesis of renal cell carcinoma by regulating the m6A modification of PPAT

Objective Serine hydroxymethyltransferase 2 (SHMT2) is the first rate-limiting enzyme for serine/glycine biosynthesis and one carbon metabolism. Here, we explore the underlying mechanism of how SHMT2 functions in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) initiation. Methods In this study, SHMT2 expression was assessed in RCC tissues. In vitro experiments were performed to investigate the functional role of SHMT2. The detailed mechanisms of SHMT2-mediated PPAT were addressed. Results Increased SHMT2 facilitated RCC cell proliferation by inducing the G1/S phase transition. And SHMT2 promoted the expression of PPAT. Mechanism dissection revealed that SHMT2 enhanced the m6A modification through the endogenous methyl donor SAM mediated by SHMT2 via serine/glycine one carbon metabolic networks. SHMT2-catalyzed serine/glycine conversion regulated PPAT expression in an m6A-IGF2BP2-dependent manner. SHMT2 promoted RCC cell proliferation by upregulating PPAT expression. Conclusions SHMT2 promotes RCC tumorigenesis by increasing PPAT expression. Thus, SHMT2 may be a novel potential therapeutic target for RCC.