Scientists Identify Extracellular RNA (exRNA) Persistence in Disinfected Drinking Water

Key facts

• A study published in the journal Clean Water on 28 March 2026 reported that extracellular RNA (exRNA) from bacteria can persist in disinfected drinking water.
• Researchers found that analysing exRNA allows for the identification of bacterial survival strategies used just before the organisms are damaged or killed.
• Extracellular RNA (exRNA) is defined as RNA that exists outside cells in body fluids such as blood, saliva, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid.
• Cells intentionally export RNA within molecular containers to prevent enzymes from breaking it down before it reaches its destination.
• The exRNA functions as a long-distance communication system that coordinates immune system responses, tissue repair, and biological development.
• Cancer cells utilize exRNA to promote tumour growth, while doctors use specific RNA patterns in body fluids to identify cancer and heart disease.