A primitive cell model involving Vesicles, microtubules and asters

Area of Science:

• Origin of Life Studies
• Biochemistry
• Chemical Evolution

Background:

• Protocells are hypothesized to be precursors to modern cells.
• Simple amphiphiles and organic molecules are considered potential building blocks for early protocells.
• Understanding the self-assembly and behavior of these molecules is crucial for origin of life research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the self-assembly and behavior of a protocell model using sodium monododecyl phosphate (SDP) and isopentenol (IPN).
• To explore how these primitive building blocks form complex chemical entities and exhibit cell-like behaviors.
• To address key unanswered questions in the pre-life chemical origin scenario.

Main Methods:

• Characterization of phase behavior and aggregate formation in an SDP/IPN/H2O system using electron microscopy, DLS, IR, ESI-MS, and SAXS.
• Assessment of protocell model stability through freeze-thaw and wet-dry treatments.
• Evaluation of cell-like behavior, specifically chemical signaling communication, under simulated conditions.

Main Results:

• Formation of vesicular, microtubule, and aster phases mimicking cellular and organelle structures.
• Identification of intermolecular hydrogen bonding as the primary driving force for aggregate formation.
• Demonstration of remarkable stability under simulated primordial Earth conditions (diurnal temperature variations, tidal forces) and exhibition of chemical signaling transitions.

Conclusions:

• SDP and IPN can self-assemble into stable, cell-like structures relevant to the origin of life.
• Intermolecular hydrogen bonding is key to the formation of these primitive protocell models.
• The protocell model exhibits essential cell-like functions, including stability and chemical communication, providing insights into early life.