Abstract
Background: N1-methyladenosine (m1A) is a recently identified mRNA
modification. It is still unclear, though, whether m1A alteration
affects how colorectal cancer (CRC) develops. Methods: We
retrospectively analyzed 398 CRC patients and 39 normal controls using
the TCGA database to evaluate m1A modification patterns regarding tumor
immune microenvironment (TIME) in CRC. The m1Ascore was developed using
principal component analysis. And its clinical value in prognosis of CRC
was further explored. Results: We revealed 12 key m1A-related DEGs
including CLDN3, MUC2 and CCDC85B which are identified associated with
invasion and metastasis in CRC. The most important biological processes
linked to a weak immune response and a poor prognosis were the
regulation of RNA metabolism and RNA biosynthesis. Furthermore, we found
that compared to CRC patients with low m1A scores, those with high m1A
scores had a higher percentage, a larger tumor burden, and a worse
prognosis for survival. Conclusion: Significantly diverse m1A
modification patterns can be seen in CRC. Through its impact on TIME and
immunological dysfunction, the heterogeneity of m1A alteration patterns
influences the prognosis of CRC. This study provided novel insights into
the m1A modification in CRC which might promote the development of
personalized immunotherapy strategies.