The first cell: The mystery surrounding the beginning of Life - Ulrich C. Schreiber & Christian Mayer
Illustrates the processes of chemical evolution under real-world conditions.
Connects the peptide/protein world with the RNA world.
Explains how information storage in RNA might have started.
Connects the peptide/protein world with the RNA world.
Explains how information storage in RNA might have started.
This book introduces a fresh perspective on the conditions for the
genesis of the first cell. An important possible environment of the
prehistoric Earth has long been overlooked as a host to the perfect
biochemical conditions for this process. The first complexes of
continental crust on the early Earth must have already contained systems
of interconnected cracks and cavities, which were filled with volatiles
like water, carbon dioxide and nitrogen. This book offers insights into
how these conditions may have provided the ideal physical and chemical
setting for the formation of protocells and early stages of life.
The authors support their hypothesis with a number of astonishing findings from laboratory experiments focusing on a variety of organic compounds, and on the formation of key cellular ingredients and of primitive cell-like structures. Moreover, they discuss the principles of prebiotic evolution regarding the aspects of order and complexity. Guiding readers through various stages of hypotheses and re-created evolutionary processes, the book is enriched with personal remarks and experiences throughout, reflecting the authors' personal quest to solve the mystery surrounding the first cell.
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