Lifelong persistence of nuclear RNAs in the mouse brain. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38574132/)

These scientists wanted to understand how long certain molecules in our brain cells can last. They focused on a type of molecule called RNA, which is important for controlling how our genes work. They found that in some cells in the mouse brain, there are special RNAs that can stay around for at least 2 years without being replaced.

These long-lasting RNAs are like little helpers that help keep the cell organized and functioning properly. They are especially important for maintaining a part of the cell called heterochromatin, which is like a storage unit for genetic information.

By studying these long-lived RNAs, the scientists discovered that the lifespan of brain cells may depend on both the DNA, which holds our genetic information for a long time, and the RNA, which helps keep everything in the cell running smoothly. This research helps us learn more about how our brains work and how they stay healthy over time.

Zocher S., McCloskey A., Karasinsky A., Schulte R., Friedrich U., Lesche M., Rund N., Gage FH., Hetzer MW., Toda T. Lifelong persistence of nuclear RNAs in the mouse brain. Science. 2024 Apr 5;384(6691):53-59. doi: 10.1126/science.adf3481. Epub 2024 Apr 4.