METTL3 promotes non-small-cell lung cancer growth and metastasis by inhibiting FDX1 through copper death-associated pri-miR-21-5p maturation

Objective: We probed into the significance of METTL3 in the maturation process of pri-miR-21-5p. We specifically investigated its impact on the regulation of FDX1 and its involvement in the progression of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) identified NSCLC factors. Methylation-specific PCR (MSP), clonogenic tests and flow cytometry analyzed cells. Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (Me-RIP) and dual-luciferase studied miR-21-5p/FDX1. Mice xenografts showed METTL3's tumorigenic effect. Results: METTL3, with high expression but low methylation in NSCLC, influenced cell behaviors. Its suppression reduced oncogenic properties. METTL3 enhanced miR-21-5p maturation, targeting FDX1 and boosting NSCLC tumorigenicity in mice. Conclusion: METTL3 may promote NSCLC development by facilitating pri-miR-21-5p maturation, upregulating miR-21-5p and targeting inhibition of FDX1.