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Potentially Prebiotic Isocyanide Activation Chemistry Drives RNA Assembly via both Nonenzymatic and Ribozymecatalyzed
Stephanie J Zhang1, Xiwen Jia2, Saurja DasGupta3,4
1Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States.
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|July 17, 2025
Summary
Prebiotic chemistry can activate RNA building blocks and drive RNA ligation, crucial for the origin of life. This study shows a continuous pathway from activation to RNA assembly, supporting early Earth RNA emergence models.
Area of Science:
- Origin of Life Studies
- Prebiotic Chemistry
- RNA World Hypothesis
Background:
- Nonenzymatic activation of RNA building blocks is key for early RNA assembly.
- Previous work demonstrated prebiotic activation of ribonucleoside monophosphates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if prebiotic chemistry can activate oligoribonucleotides.
- To demonstrate RNA ligation driven by prebiotic activation chemistry.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a phospho-Passerini reaction for activating RNA components.
- Investigated nonenzymatic and ribozyme-catalyzed RNA ligation in situ.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated activation of oligoribonucleotides using the same prebiotic chemistry.
- Showcased both nonenzymatic and ribozyme-catalyzed RNA ligation within the reaction mixture.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a continuous pathway from prebiotic activation to RNA assembly.
- Offers a more integrated and realistic model for RNA emergence on early Earth.
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