YTH domain-containing family protein 3 (YTHDF3)

YTH domain-containing family protein 3 (YTHDF3) is an RNA-binding protein that acts as a “reader” of the N6-methyladenosine (m^6A) modification found on eukaryotic mRNAs[1][3]. It recognizes and binds m^6A-modified transcripts in the cytoplasm, facilitating both their translation and decay in cooperation with YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 proteins[1][2][4]. YTHDF3 exhibits high sequence similarity to other YTHDF family proteins and shares many target mRNAs. Biologically, it forms a critical part of the mRNA metabolism machinery, modulating gene expression post-transcriptionally and playing essential roles in cell differentiation, tissue development, and disease, particularly several cancers[4]. In this context, YTHDF3 is being investigated as a therapeutic target and biomarker, although no clinical drugs directly modulate its activity yet. It is evolutionarily conserved with broad expression, notably in brain and cancer tissues, and functions through dynamic interaction with other YTHDF proteins and translation/decay factors[1][2][4].

Other names

YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA binding protein F3YTH domain-containing family protein 3DF3FLJ31657YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA binding protein 3YTH domain family protein 3YTH domain family, member 3YTHDF3

Drugs targeting YTHDF3 would theoretically modulate mRNA translation and decay by altering its m^6A-binding activity Mechanistically, small molecules or inhibitors could block m^6A recognition or YTHDF3’s interaction with translation or decay machinery