RNA methyltransferase

RNA methyltransferase refers to a group of enzymes that mediate methyl group addition to RNA molecules, mainly using S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) as a methyl donor. These enzymes recognize specific RNA substrates (e.g., mRNA, tRNA, rRNA), modifying nucleotides at distinct positions such as N6-adenosine (m^6A), 2’-O-ribose, or m^7G cap structures. Well-characterized families include METTL (Methyltransferase-like proteins, e.g., METTL3, METTL16), NSUN (NOP2/Sun), and TRMT (tRNA methyltransferase subfamilies). RNA methyltransferases are essential for epigenetic gene regulation, cell differentiation, RNA stability, and have been implicated in diverse pathologies including cancers and viral infections. Inhibitors of RNA methyltransferases are being investigated for therapeutic use, though clinical candidates are still emerging.

Other names

RNA MTaseMethyltransferase-like protein (e.g., METTL)tRNA methyltransferase (TRMT)NOP2/Sun RNA methyltransferase (NSUN)2’-O-methyltransferase (2’-O-MTase)N6-adenosine methyltransferase

Inhibition of methyl group transfer to RNA nucleotides (reducing mRNA/tRNA modification) Modulation of RNA stability and translation Suppression of viral replication (by targeting viral MTases)