Too much RNA can starve cells of energy, scientists discover
Scientists have uncovered an unexpected danger lurking inside cells: too much RNA can damage the structures responsible for producing energy. A new study found that excess RNA, including the normally essential messenger RNA (mRNA), can directly disrupt mitochondria without relying on the immune system. The discovery could help explain how viral infections and certain aging-related diseases damage cells.
Key Takeaways
- Scientists have uncovered an unexpected danger lurking inside cells: too much RNA can damage the structures responsible for producing energy.
- A new study found that excess RNA, including the normally essential messenger RNA (mRNA), can directly disrupt mitochondria without relying on the immune system.
- The discovery could help explain how viral infections and certain aging-related diseases damage cells.
Scientists have uncovered an unexpected danger lurking inside cells: too much RNA can damage the structures responsible for producing energy. A new study found that excess RNA, including the normally essential messenger RNA (mRNA), can directly disrupt mitochondria without relying on the immune system. The discovery could help explain how viral infections and certain aging-related diseases damage cells.
Original Publisher Attribution
This summary was curated from ScienceDaily.