Obelisks: A newly discovered viroid-like phylogenetic group in human microbiomes
Researchers discovered a new class of viroid-like elements called "Obelisks" in human microbiomes, characterized by unique RNA genomes, persistence in individuals, and presence across diverse ecological niches globally.
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Researchers have identified a new class of viroid-like elements termed "Obelisks" in human gut metatranscriptomic data. These elements are characterized by their approximately 1kb circular RNA genomes, rod-like secondary structures, and open reading frames coding for a novel protein superfamily called "Oblins." Obelisks form a distinct phylogenetic group, showing no similarity to known biological agents. They are prevalent in human microbiomes, detected in about 7% of stool metatranscriptomes and 50% of oral metatranscriptomes analyzed. The composition of Obelisks varies by anatomical site, and they can persist in individuals for extended periods, with one case showing presence for over 300 days. A large-scale search revealed nearly 30,000 Obelisks across diverse ecological niches worldwide. Some of these elements code for specific variants of the hammerhead type-III self-cleaving ribozyme. Additionally, a specific population of Obelisk RNA was found in certain laboratory strains of the bacterial species Streptococcus sanguinis. This discovery highlights the diversity and unnoticed presence of Obelisks in human and global microbiomes.
- A new class of viroid-like elements called "Obelisks" has been identified in human microbiomes.
- Obelisks have unique circular RNA genomes and are prevalent in both stool and oral metatranscriptomes.
- They can persist in individuals for over 300 days and vary in composition by anatomical site.
- Nearly 30,000 Obelisks have been identified globally across various ecological niches.
- Some Obelisks code for specific variants of a self-cleaving ribozyme and are associated with certain bacterial strains.
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