Have you ever pondered how life first emerged on our planet? While discussions around this topic often focus on biology and chemistry, it’s crucial to also consider the roles of physics, energy, and the movement of electrons. According to researcher Josh Mancini from Rutgers University, humans extract energy from the sugars found in our food, where proteins within our cells capture electrons from these sugars and link them to the oxygen we inhale.
However, what occurred billions of years ago when sugars and oxygen were non-existent? To delve into this enigma, Mancini and his team have created a simulation of primordial Earth conditions inside a specially designed chamber. They are investigating alternative methods through which electrons could have been transferred without oxygen, exploring possibilities such as hydrogen sourced from hydrothermal vents or light energy harnessed from the sun.
In their experiments, they are utilizing nickel as a facilitator, examining how proteins interact with nickel to gain insights into how primitive life forms might have converted chemical energy into biological energy. Their research aims to reveal how simple enzymes could have evolved into more complex biological structures, providing clues about the evolution of life on Earth and potential life forms on other planets.
Although they have yet to identify the ideal protein/nickel combination, their work is progressively advancing towards answering one of the most intriguing questions surrounding the origin of life. To keep up with their innovative research and findings, consider subscribing to the Smarter Faster newsletter. Stay informed about groundbreaking ideas from leading thinkers!
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