This PhD project focuses on investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying multiple myeloma (MM), the second most prevalent hematological malignancy, characterized by uncontrolled plasma cell expansion in the bone marrow. Despite advancements in anti-MM agents, challenges such as disease recurrence and multidrug resistance persist. The project aims to explore the connection between N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification and circular RNA (circRNA) biogenesis in MM, with a particular focus on the interaction between m6A-associated enzymes and splicing complexes. The study will employ cell lines and various techniques, including shRNA/CRISPR-based methods and protein degradation systems. The second objective involves evaluating the potential of (m6A)-circRNA as a prognostic tool for MM patients, using longitudinal patient samples collected at different stages post-diagnosis and treatment. Collaboration with clinicians will facilitate the clinical application of research findings, assessing RBPs and candidate m6A-modified circRNAs in patient samples. The project aims to identify circRNA signatures as potential diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for MM through integrated analysis of omics data and machine learning-based algorithms.

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