Vir-like m6A methyltransferase associated (VIRMA)

Vir-like m6A methyltransferase associated (VIRMA), also known as KIAA1429, is a critical scaffolding component of the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase complex, often referred to as the 'writer' complex. It plays a key role in recruiting the catalytic core (METTL3/METTL14) to specific RNA targets, particularly in the 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) and near stop codons, thereby facilitating site-specific methylation. This modification influences various aspects of RNA metabolism, including stability, splicing, and translation efficiency. In a clinical context, VIRMA is frequently overexpressed in several malignancies, such as hepatocellular carcinoma and breast cancer, where it promotes tumor progression by stabilizing oncogenic transcripts. Consequently, VIRMA is emerging as a significant therapeutic target and diagnostic biomarker in oncology. While specific small-molecule inhibitors are still in early stages of discovery, targeting the VIRMA-mediated m6A machinery represents a promising strategy for modulating epitranscriptomic dysregulation in disease.

Other names

KIAA1429Virilizer-like proteinm6A methyltransferase complex subunit VIRMAProtein virilizer homolog

Inhibition of the m6A methyltransferase complex to reduce N6-methyladenosine modification of oncogenic mRNAs