Functions of RNA N6-Methyladenosine Demethylases in Plant Development and Stress Responses

N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most abundant internal modification in eukaryotic mRNA, regulates gene expression by modulating mRNA metabolism. Demethylases (“erasers”) specifically remove these m6A marks. In mammals, FTO and ALKBH5 (ALKBH family members) are key erasers regulating metabolism, reproduction, and development. Notably, heterologous expression of human FTO in rice and potato significantly increase yield. In contrast, research on plant m6A demethylases is still in its infancy, though several ALKBH family members have been identified. These enzymes play crucial roles in regulating plant growth and development, as well as in mediating stress responses, highlighting their considerable potential in enhancing crop yield and improving agronomic traits. This review summarizes current knowledge on identified m6A demethylases, conducts a phylogenetic analysis of the ALKBH family across representative plant species, and elaborates on the roles of these enzymes in key biological processes such as flowering time regulation, fruit ripening, male fertility, and responses to both biotic and abiotic stresses. Further research on plant RNA m6A demethylases will deepen our understanding of RNA epigenetic regulatory mechanisms, uncover valuable genetic resources, and ultimately facilitate the breeding of high-yielding, high-quality crop varieties.