N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent internal modification of eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA). The total amount of m6A can be detected by several methods, such as dot blot analysis using specific m6A antibodies and quantitative liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) (Fu et al., 2014; Shen et al., 2016). Here we describe the method for fast detection of total m6A levels in mRNA by dot blot analysis using a specific m6A antibody.
Dot blot analysis for detecting total m6A levels in mRNA is relatively easy, fast, and cost-effective as compared to other methods, such as two-dimensional thin layer chromatography and LC-MS/MS. This approach can be used, in a qualitative manner, to evaluate temporal and spatial changes in m6A levels in various plant tissues or plants at different developmental stages. This is particularly useful for initial examination of changes in m6A levels in relevant mutants prior to detailed investigations by other complex and quantitative approaches.
Shen, L., Liang, Z. and Yu, H. (2017). Dot Blot Analysis of N6-methyladenosine RNA Modification Levels. Bio-protocol 7(1): e2095. DOI: 10.21769/BioProtoc.2095.