Journal of Molecular Evolution

, Volume 2, Issue 2–3, pp 91–98 | Cite as

Synthesis of amino acyl-adenylates under prebiotic conditions

  • Mella Paecht-Horowitz
  • A. Katchalsky
Article
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Summary

In a system containing zeolites, ATP and amino acids, amino acid-ADP anhydrides are able to form in an aqueous medium at neutral pH and room temperature. When montmorillonite, a clay possessing swelling properties, is added, polypeptides are formed. It is suggested that this may be the mechanism whereby prebiotic synthesis of peptides took place.

Key words

Prebiotic Peptide Synthesis Amino Acid-Adenylates Heterogeneous Catalysis by Clays 
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Copyright information

© Springer-Verlag 1973

Authors and Affiliations

  • Mella Paecht-Horowitz
    • 1
  • A. Katchalsky
    • 1
  1. 1.Polymer DepartmentThe Weizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael

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