Next-generation sequencing-based analysis of the effect of N6-methyldeoxyadenosine modification on DNA replication in human cells

ABSTRACT N6-methyldeoxyadenine (6mA) modification is considered as a new epigenetic mark that may play important roles in various biological processes. However, it remains unclear about the effect of 6mA on DNA replication in human cells. Herein, we combined next-generation sequencing with shuttle vector technology to explore how 6mA affects the efficiency and accuracy of DNA replication in human cells. Our results showed that 6mA neither blocked DNA replication nor induced mutations in human cells. Moreover, we found that the depletion of translesion synthesis DNA polymerase (Pol) κ, Pol η, Pol ι or Pol ζ did not significantly change the biological consequences of 6mA during replication in human cells. The negligible impact of 6mA on DNA replication is consistent with its potential role in epigenetic gene expression.