Researchers have discovered a new type of RNA, termed 'obeliscos', that exists within the human microbiome but is neither viral nor bacterial in nature.
An international team of researchers, led by Nobel laureate Andrew Fire from Stanford University, has identified a novel type of RNA that does not belong to any known viruses or bacteria. This finding was made possible through massive genomic data analysis and has sparked new inquiries into the complex life forms and biological systems that coexist with humans. The researchers detected these circular RNA fragments, termed 'obeliscos' due to their elongated shape and enigmatic character, which do not fit into any previously categorized genetic elements.
The discovery, published in 2025, indicates that these sequences appear consistently in diverse individuals across various regions of the world, pointing to their prevalence as a common feature rather than an isolated anomaly. This raises questions about the nature of these RNAs and their role, if any, within the human microbiome. Such findings may contribute to a deeper understanding of microbial life and its interactions within human habitats, potentially influencing fields like medicine, biology, and environmental science.
The implications of finding such an RNA are profound, as it challenges existing notions of life and biological classification. If these 'obeliscos' demonstrate significant interactions with human biology, they could influence health outcomes, immune responses, or even human evolution. Continued research into these mysterious RNAs may reveal their functions and importance in our ecosystems, leading to new scientific paradigms that broaden our comprehension of life on Earth.
