Obelisks
The recent discovery of “Obelisks,” a new class of virus-like entities, has brought significant attention in the scientific community. Found within the human gut and mouth, these entities feature unique circular RNA genomes and are unlike any known biological agents. They were identified by researchers who analyzed over 5 million genetic datasets, finding their presence in 7% of stool samples and 50% of oral samples worldwide. Named after their rod-like structure resembling ancient monuments, obelisks contain genes for a novel protein superfamily called “Oblins.” Despite their widespread presence and intriguing nature, their function and impact on human health remain largely unknown, marking an exciting yet challenging frontier in microbiome research.
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