METTL20
Mettl20: The Methyltransferase That's Essential for Life
Description
Mettl20 is a methyltransferase enzyme that plays a crucial role in the modification and regulation of RNA molecules. It is responsible for methylating the N6 adenosine residue of specific RNAs, a process known as N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation. m6A is the most prevalent internal RNA modification in eukaryotes and has been implicated in various biological processes, including RNA stability, splicing, translation, and cell differentiation.
Function
Mettl20 is primarily involved in the formation of m6A marks on messenger RNA (mRNA). This modification affects the fate and function of mRNA by altering its interactions with RNA-binding proteins and non-coding RNAs. m6A methylation can stabilize mRNA, promote translation, and influence splicing patterns.
Associated Diseases
Dysregulation of Mettl20 activity has been linked to several human diseases, including:
- Cancer: Overexpression of Mettl20 and increased m6A levels have been observed in various cancer types, where they contribute to cell proliferation, metastasis, and chemoresistance.
- Cardiovascular Disease: Mettl20 deficiency has been associated with impaired cardiac function and the development of heart failure.
- Neurodegenerative Disorders: Alterations in Mettl20 expression and m6A methylation have been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
- Metabolic Disorders: Mettl20 has been found to regulate glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Dysregulation of Mettl20 activity can lead to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Did you Know ?
According to a recent study, approximately 70% of human genes contain at least one m6A modification, highlighting the widespread impact of Mettl20 in RNA regulation.
