An under-the-radar micronutrient is having a moment.

Queuosine — just call it “Q” — is a molecule that humans can only get from foods and gut bacteria. It’s has been known to microbiologists for decades, who know it plays a role in protein synthesis — as well as cancer growth, brain health, and inflammation. Yet, it hasn’t been clear how Q moves from the gut into cells throughout the body. Now the curtain has been pulled back.

The authors of a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences ( PNAS ) have pinpointed a gene ( SLC35F2 ) that helps transport Q to cells. The researchers say the new finding could help scientists figure out how to use the micronutrient to fight disease.

“It’s 70 years ago now that Q was discovered,” said study author Vincent P. Kell

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