Rethinking nucleic acids from their origins to their applications

Area of Science:

• Synthetic biology
• Astrobiology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Standard nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) are the basis of life on Earth.
• The origin of these informational polymers is a key question in abiogenesis.
• Understanding the fundamental requirements for informational polymers is crucial for astrobiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review three decades of synthetic biology research focused on creating alternative informational systems.
• To explore the natural history and potential origins of nucleic acids.
• To identify universal biosignatures for detecting life beyond Earth.

Main Methods:

• Synthetic biology approaches to generate novel molecular systems capable of supporting Darwinian evolution.
• Laboratory in vitro evolution (LIVE) to create high-performance catalysts and receptors.
• Analysis of the structural and chemical requirements for informational polymers.

Main Results:

• The core structure of nucleic acids may arise from abiotic chemical processes on early Earth or Mars.
• Numerous synthetic molecular systems can support molecular information evolution, distinct from DNA/RNA.
• These alternative systems enhance biotechnology, diagnostics, and medicine.
• LIVE with expanded DNA yields superior catalysts and receptors, enabling new disease therapies.
• Informational polymers require polyelectrolyte structure and regular building blocks for evolution.

Conclusions:

• The fundamental requirements for Darwinian evolution in informational polymers are universal and agnostic biosignatures.
• Synthetic biology provides tools to explore life's origins and potential beyond Earth.
• Novel informational polymers offer advanced biotechnological and therapeutic applications.