Radio Cadena Agramonte emisiora de Camagüey
USA, March 3. -Two markers of longevity have been discovered in the blood: specifically, they are small RNA chains, known as piRNAs, whose presence can accurately predict the probability of survival for older adults over the next two years.
The study, based on blood analyses of 1,271 people over the age of 71, is led by Virginia Byers Kraus of the Duke Molecular Physiology Institute and was published in the journal Aging Cell.
"The combination of a few piRNAs," said Kraus, "turned out to be the strongest predictor of two-year survival in older adults, stronger than age, lifestyle habits, or any other health parameter we examined."
"And what's even more surprising is that this powerful signal comes from a simple blood test. piRNA is a form of RNA whose characteristics and origin are still very poorly understood, but it is believed to be involved in the production of immune system cells," the expert continued.
"Using artificial intelligence techniques to cross-reference hundreds of parameters, the researchers observed that six types of these piRNAs are closely related to survival," she stated.
"We know very little about piRNAs in the blood, but what we are observing is that having low levels of some specific piRNAs is positive," said Kraus.
"When they are present in higher amounts," she explained, "it could be a signal that something in the body is not functioning correctly. Understanding the reason could open the door to new therapies that promote healthy aging."
"This surprising discovery requires further research, particularly to better understand the mechanisms involved in piRNAs and their role in aging. We are just beginning to understand their power," Kraus stated.
"But this research suggests that soon we may be able to measure short-term survival risk with a simple, minimally invasive blood test." (Text and Photo: Cubasí)
