RNA modifications

The emerging field of epitranscriptomics, reminiscent of epigenetics, has transformed our understanding of RNA modifications as eminent post-transcriptional regulators of various cellular processes. Up until a few years ago, elucidating the physiological and pathological functions, in particular the location and abundance, of RNA modifications remained a challenge due to the lack of reliable mapping technologies. Recent advent of high throughput sequencing techniques coupled with autonomous bioinformatics tools has opened up new avenues for exploring potential therapeutic targets and for forging novel traits that expedite commercialization of plant and animal biotechnology. In this regard, two promising technologies, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-Seq or m6A-Seq) and RNA bisulfite sequencing (RNA-BisSeq), are currently considered as the gold standard for mapping of m6A and m5C RNA modifications, respectively. By presenting a contemporary overview on key RNA modifications and their mapping technologies, especially the historic evolution, principles and applications of MeRIP-Seq and RNA-BisSeq, this chapter offers a valuable guide to aspiring researchers with interests in exploring the technological advances of RNA epigenetics.