Circulating Piwi-Interacting RNA Levels Correlate with Survival in Old People
Plasma levels of specific piwi-interacting RNAs associate with survival in older adults. In 1,271 EPESE participants, researchers profiled 828 small non-coding RNAs (687 miRNAs, 141 piRNAs) and built prediction models combining small RNAs with clinical and NMR-derived variables that achieved cross-validated 2‑year survival AUCs of 0.92 (Discovery) and 0.87 (Validation). Nine piRNAs—all reduced in longer-lived individuals—were nominated as potential therapeutic targets; authors used causal inference under causal sufficiency and cited reduced piRNA biogenesis doubling lifespan in C. elegans as supporting plausibility.
Why it mattersEPESE plasma profiles (n=1,271) yielded 2‑year survival AUC 0.87–0.92, and nine reduced piRNAs flag targetable biomarkers.