Researchers used a sequencing method to find hidden small RNAs in the liver. They identified a molecule called tsRNA-Glu-CTC, which is very common in the liver and whose level changes with cholesterol.
In mice, higher tsRNA-Glu-CTC increased activity of SREBP2, the protein that controls cholesterol production, and so switched on genes that make cholesterol. When researchers used an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) to block the molecule, mice had lower cholesterol and milder atherosclerosis. A naturally modified form of the molecule worked better than synthetic versions. Human blood tests showed people with higher tsRNA-Glu-CTC tended to have higher cholesterol. The finding could help new drugs that act earlier than current medicines.
Difficult words
- sequencing — a laboratory method to read DNA or RNA
- cholesterol — a fatty substance found in blood and cells
- antisense oligonucleotide — a short synthetic strand that blocks an RNA
- atherosclerosis — a disease where arteries become narrow with fat
- synthetic — made by people, not by living things
- switch on — to start a biological process or activityswitched on
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Related articles
Why African Men Should Get Tested for Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a major health issue for African men. Early testing can help improve survival rates.
Nigeria factory begins large production of rapid test kits
A WHO‑licensed factory in Nigeria has started to produce a large number of rapid diagnostic test kits for HIV, malaria and tuberculosis, using mainly local parts and aiming to increase domestic production over coming years.
Coartem Baby: first malaria medicine for newborns
Swissmedic approved Coartem Baby in July 2025, the first antimalarial made for newborns under five kilograms. The tablet aims to close a long treatment gap in malaria-endemic parts of Sub-Saharan Africa.
Twenty Minutes Twice a Week May Slow Dementia
A new study led by Texas A&M researchers found that 20 minutes of exercise twice weekly may help slow dementia progression in older adults. The team used 2012–2020 Health and Retirement Study data and noted some study limits.
Pigeon Peas Festival in Diego Martin
Florence Warrick-Joseph started a pigeon peas festival in Diego Martin after a course in 2014 and a big crop. The 2015 festival brought community recipes, new dishes and new pigeon-pea products, and she plans supermarket sales.
Africa plans to make more vaccines
The African Union aims for the continent to make most of its own vaccines by 2040. Africa now produces very few vaccines, and plans include new partnerships, factories and international funding, but experts warn of big challenges.