New Duke Health study finds simple blood test could predict longer life

abc11.com · Feb 26, 2026 · Collected from GDELT

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HEALTH & FITNESSWednesday, February 25, 2026 10:22PMDURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- A new study from Duke Health suggests a simple blood test may help predict who is more likely to live longer.Researchers found that small RNA molecules known as piRNAs can accurately indicate whether older adults are likely to survive at least two more years. The findings raise the possibility that a basic blood test could one day help identify health risks earlier and guide care plans that support healthy aging.The study looked at blood samples from adults aged 71 and older. Researchers discovered that lower levels of certain piRNAs were strongly linked to longer survival. These small RNA molecules help regulate development, tissue repair and the immune system.These small RNAs are like micromanagers in the body, helping control many processes that affect health and aging. We're only beginning to understand how powerful they are.- Virginia Byers Kraus, professor at Duke's departments of Medicine, Pathology and Orthopaedic SurgeryTo conduct the study, the team used advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to analyze 187 clinical factors and 828 types of small RNAs in more than 1,200 blood samples."We know very little about piRNAs in the blood, but what we're seeing is that lower levels of certain ones are better," said senior author Virginia Byers Kraus, a professor in Duke's departments of Medicine, Pathology and Orthopaedic Surgery. "When these molecules are present in higher amounts, it may signal that something in the body is off track. Understanding why could open up new possibilities for therapies that promote healthy aging."SEE | Raleigh leaders unveil plans for expanded affordable housing at Heritage ParkResearchers found that a group of just six piRNAs predicted two-year survival with 86% accuracy. For short-term survival, piRNAs performed better than age, physical activity, cholesterol and many other common health measures. For longer-term survival, lifestyle factors played a larger role, but piRNAs still offered valuable insight into underlying biology."These small RNAs are like micromanagers in the body, helping control many processes that affect health and aging," Kraus said. "We're only beginning to understand how powerful they are. This research suggests we may be able to identify short-term survival risk using a practical, minimally invasive blood test with the goal of improving health as we age."Kraus said next steps include studying whether lifestyle changes, medications or emerging treatments -- including GLP1-based therapies -- could influence piRNA levels. The team also plans to compare piRNA levels in blood with levels found inside tissues to better understand how these molecules work.SEE ALSO | North Carolina lawmakers react to Trump's State of the UnionDownload the ABC11 News appCopyright © 2026 WTVD-TV. All Rights Reserved.