The Quiet Giant: Identification, Effectors, Molecular Mechanism, Physiological and Pathological Function in mRNA 5-methylcytosine Modification.

5-Methylcytosine (m5C) is a prevalent nucleotide alteration observed in transfer RNA (tRNA) and ribosomal RNA (rRNA), and it is also widely distributed in the transcriptome, serving as one of the internal modifications of messenger RNA (mRNA) in higher eukaryotes. Increasing evidence has substantiated the presence of m5C in mRNA. As research on m5C progresses, there is an initial comprehension of its molecular mechanisms and biological significance in mRNA. This work aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the most recent advancements in the identification and screening, distribution, molecular functions, and biological effects of m5C in mRNA. We outline the current status of research and provide prospects for potential future applications.