[evan_au (OP)]

These RNA-based particles were discovered only in 2024.
- They appear to be different from the more familiar RNA-based viruses, which have a protein coat.
- It's not clear what they really do in biology
- Like viruses, you would probably not say obelisks were "alive"
- Chris: Would it be possible to do an Obelisk segment on the Naked Scientists Podcast, please?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obelisk_(biology)

[paul cotter]

Interesting that they can be detected in humans as without a surface protein they would have no entry mechanism through the cell membrane. Not a lot I can add as I had never heard of them or of viroids for that matter other than the hepatitis d agent that uses the proteins of hep b to gain entry to cells.