Chirality and Life

This book presents the fascinating formation of the first simple bioorganic molecules and describes the hidden aspects of chiral compounds, which raise questions on the molecular beginnings of life. The occurrences of extraterrestrial, non-standard amino acids in meteorites are dealt with in detail, as well as their subsequent transfer to proteinogenic amino acids. The concept of asymmetric organo-catalysis for the synthesis of carbohydrates and ribonucleosides are considered. The notion of a single amino acid that functions as an enzyme is developed. Attempts to simulate ancient world scenarios are critically reviewed. There is a special focus on ribozymes and the resulting RNA world. Combinations of different world scenarios are discussed in view of an on-going evolution. The currently most plausible hypotheses and visions of ancient world scenarios that led to today’s DNA world are also provided. Included is a pre-cellular world of viruses that is presented for the first time.

From the reviews:

“This brief book has two parts; the first tries to lay the groundwork by which chemical evolution led to the synthesis of biologically relevant molecules, while the second summarizes several current plausible hypotheses relating to the origin of molecules and, by extension, cells and life. … In general, the topics are stimulating and exciting … . Summing UP … . Upper-division undergraduates and above.” (M. Rossi, Choice, Vol. 48 (11), August, 2011)

Part I. Physico-chemical Principles

1. Introduction

2. Formation of primordial bioorganic molecules 

3. Hidden Aspects of Chirality

4. RNAs and their constituents                                                       

5. Proteins and their constituents                                                  

6. Membranes

7. Compounds Required for Life

                                                      

Part II. Scenarios of Ancient Worlds

8. The RNA World Involves RNA as a First Genetic System

9. Peptide and Protein World

10. Combinations of the RNA with the peptide world     

11. The Precellular World of Viruses                                              

12. Combinations of Different Worlds                            

13. The Iron Sulfide World of Proto-Metabolism                       

14. The Genetic Code