L-08：Development of Novel Drug Discovery Technologies Based on the Epitranscriptome

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＜L-08＞：Life Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences sdgs-03
 

Development of Novel Drug Discovery Technologies Based on the Epitranscriptome
― Elucidation of New Homeostatic Mechanisms of Methylated RNA through Comprehensive Analyses and Exploration of Novel Drug Discovery Seeds ―

Nazere Keyoumu　　Assistant Professor
Yuki Kuwano　　　　   Associate Professor
Hiroyuki Morino　　   Professor		  
Medical Genetics, Physiological Science, Medical Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
Keywords Methylated RNA, m6A-modified RNA, epitranscriptome, drug discovery
Laboratory URL https://www.tokushima-u.ac.jp/med/culture/med/seitaiseigyo/medicalgenetics/
Research Overview
● The Urgent Need for More Effective Therapies for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Cancer
Advances in molecular targeted therapies have significantly improved cancer treatment; nevertheless, many cancers still lack effective therapeutic options. In particular, as the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases and cancers rises alongside an aging population, there is an urgent need to elucidate their pathogenic mechanisms and establish effective treatments.

● An Approach Using Comprehensive Methylated RNA Analysis: Epitranscriptome Analysis
In recent years, post-transcriptional RNA modifications gained significant attention. Epitranscriptome analysis—the comprehensive profiling of methylated RNA—is now essential for elucidating mechanisms of homeostasis. Accumulating evidence suggests that methylated RNAs play critical roles in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.
We are investigating the molecular dynamics of methylated RNA to explore novel therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.
 
Potential Applications and Commercialization Prospects

● Developing Novel Therapeutic Strategies through Functional Analysis of Methylated RNA
In neurodegenerative diseases, we have demonstrated that reduced methylated RNA delays intracellular stress responses. Furthermore, we found that disease-related molecules and methylated RNAs mutually regulate their abundance and distribution.
In cancer, we have identified specific methylated RNAs involved in the progression of colorectal cancer and elucidated their underlying molecular mechanisms. Based on these findings, we aim to develop novel therapeutic strategies targeting methylated RNA.

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Figure 1. Roles of methylated RNA in disease pathogenesis		 L-08-2.png
Figure 2. Methylated RNAs contributing to cancer progression
Publications ● Kuwano Y, Nishida K, Rokutan K. Overexpression of the transcribed ultraconserved region Uc.138 accelerates colon cancer progression. Sci Rep. 2021 Apr 21;11(1):8667. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-88123-9.

Last updated date：October 15, 2026

 

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