Researchers at KAIST have identified a potential mechanism to slow aging by removing circular RNA that accumulates in cells over time. The study, conducted using C. elegans worms, demonstrates that clearing these RNA molecules can extend lifespan and provide new insights into cellular aging processes.
Circular RNA represents a distinct form of RNA that builds up in cells as organisms age, separate from the typical linear RNA that serves as blueprints for protein production. While normal RNA is produced from DNA to create proteins, this circular variant appears to interfere with healthy cellular function when it accumulates.