How are self-replicating molecules, such as RNA molecules in the “RNA World” hypothesis, essential to the most popular hypotheses about the origin of life on Earth?
1
Expert's answer
2012-02-21T10:50:37-0500
Most theories of the origin of life concider RNA molecules, which possess ribozymes activity as a primary self-replicating molecules that gave rise to the development of life on Earth. Results of the study two hypothetical groups of ribozymes are the basis of modern ideas about the origin of life. First of all, this is an RNA replicase, constructed entirely of ribonucleotides. This assumption seems particularly attractive,because the ancient RNA molecules could store genetic information and have enzymatic activity necessary for the reproduction of this information. This combination of properties in the RNA molecule can explain how the catalytic functions performed by modern protein molecules, as well as a function of storage and transmission of genetic information occurred simultaneously and could be present in a single precursor molecule ancestors of modern cells. Theories of the origin of life which based on the original participation of RNA molecules in the creation of self-replicating systems found strong support in connection with the opening splicing and ribozymes.
Learn more about our help with Assignments: Biochemistry
Comments
Assignment Expert
27.07.12, 14:40
The RNA world hypothesis proposes that self-replicating ribonucleic
acid (RNA) molecules were precursors to current life based on
deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), RNA and proteins. RNA is able both to
store genetic information, like DNA, and to catalyze chemical
reactions, like an enzyme protein. It may therefore have played a
major step in the evolution of cellular life.
asiah
27.07.12, 01:24
can you give a SHORT answer
Leave a comment
Thank you! Your comments have been successfully added. However, they need to be checked by the moderator before being published.
Comments
The RNA world hypothesis proposes that self-replicating ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules were precursors to current life based on deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), RNA and proteins. RNA is able both to store genetic information, like DNA, and to catalyze chemical reactions, like an enzyme protein. It may therefore have played a major step in the evolution of cellular life.
can you give a SHORT answer
Leave a comment