The role of m6A reader IGF2BPs in tumor metabolic reprogramming.

Insulin-like growth factor II mRNA-binding proteins (IGF2BPs) regulate the metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells via N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, promoting rapid proliferation and malignant progression. The RNAs of key metabolic enzymes are regulated by IGF2BPs through diverse mechanisms in critical pathways, including aerobic glycolysis, lipid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism. However, the specific molecular mechanisms involved in cancer metabolism have not been fully elucidated. This review systematically summarizes the pivotal regulator of IGF2BPs in tumor metabolism, including aerobic glycolysis, lipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism, which explores the biological functions and potential therapeutic targets of IGF2BPs in various tumors. Herein, targeting the regulation of IGF2BPs activity in the regulation of cell metabolism is highly beneficial in the diagnosis and treatment of various tumors.