Life on Earth and other Planetary Bodies pp 271-289 | Cite as
Origin of the Genetic Code and Abiotic Synthesis of Organic Compounds
Abstract
The genetic code is intrinsic to all living organisms. However, it is still not known what the first replication system was. The origin of the genetic code remains uncertain, and several hypotheses have been proposed. Theories include the synthesis of peptides preceding the appearance of genes (“Metabolic Model”) or molecules of nucleic acids being responsible for the storage of genetic information (“Genetic Model”). In this chapter, the main theories for the first replication systems are outlined. Possible pathways for the prebiotic synthesis of the first monomers are reviewed. The contributions of endogenous and exogenous sources are presented, summarizing how the genetic code may have appeared on Earth.
Keywords
Genetic Code Peptide Nucleic Acid Hydrogen Cyanide Carbonyl Sulfide Prebiotic SynthesisNotes
Acknowledgments
The author would like to thank the Royal Society for financial support.
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