This Blood Test Predicts Whether a Person Will Live a Long or Short Life

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Molecules of RNA found in human blood can reveal future health conditions. In fact, a blood test that measures this RNA can predict whether a person will live a long or short life.

A study on PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) shows the potential of these molecules in projecting human health, including in designing healthcare. piRNA molecules are one of various types of RNA that do not play a role in determining human genetics through DNA.

“We don’t know much about piRNA in the blood, but we observe that the fewer of certain piRNAs, the better. When these molecules are present in large numbers, it is a signal that the body is not in good condition. Understanding the cause could open up the possibility of therapies to ensure healthier aging,” said Virginia Byers Kraus from Duke University School of Medicine, one of the researchers quoted by IFL Science.

Kraus conducted research on piRNA with Sisi Ma from the University of Minnesota. They conducted research using 1,200 blood samples from people aged 71 and over.

The researchers then used predictive and causal models to analyze 187 health indicators and 828 small RNA molecules, with a primary focus on piRNA. As many as 6 piRNAs were found that could predict a longer lifespan of 2 years with an accuracy rate of 86 percent. This means that people with lower levels of certain piRNAs live longer.

“We were surprised that this very meaningful signal came from a simple blood test,” said Kraus.

The number of piRNAs also became a more accurate reference for predicting “short-term age” compared to other health indicators such as age, cholesterol levels, and exercise activity.

“These small RNAs are like micro-managers in the body, helping to control processes that impact health and aging,” said Kraus.

In conclusion, a simple blood test to detect piRNA can be a tool to identify elderly people with a higher risk of death in the near future. This information can be used to carry out medical interventions as soon as possible.