Scientists have put forward a new theory of the origin of life on Earth

Scientists from Shenzhen University have proposed a radically new hypothesis for the origin of life on Earth, centered on natural mineral nanozymes (MN-zymes). Professor Yundong Jin's research describes the mechanism of transformation of inert chemicals into the first living systems. This was reported on June 10 by Science Daily magazine.

According to the text of the study, natural mineral nanozymes, along with subsequent generations of hybrid nanozymes from small organic molecules, played a central role in the origin and evolution of life.

The proposed model states that in the conditions of the primitive Earth, mineral nanoparticles gradually transformed gases into complex molecules through "inorganic photosynthesis." The process took place under the influence of natural energy sources: light, heat and electrical discharges. According to the author, nanozymes not only served as catalysts, but also provided protection from ultraviolet radiation, as well as energy flow control.

In the framework of the study, the Earth is considered as a giant all-in-one natural laboratory. Ideal conditions for the synthesis of nanosimes could be created in areas of active volcanoes and geothermal sources, where the necessary pressure and temperature gradients occurred. The hypothesis suggests that over billions of years, these particles have evolved and improved, eventually becoming part of living organisms.

Special attention is paid to the concept of the "golden world" (Au world). Professor Jin argues that gold nanoparticles protected by a monolayer of thiols and amines could be one of the most effective tools in the history of the origin of life. Although such particles are considered artificial today, the hypothesis proves their geological availability in ancient times.

According to the researcher, a combination of four factors was required for the stabilization and natural selection of the first molecules of life: cycles of moistening and drying, the ability to self-organize, catalytic activity and pair symbiosis. It is expected that the new concept will help to reconcile the existing contradictions between the theories of the "world of RNA", "world of lipids" and other models of abiogenesis.

On April 29, Science Daily reported on the frightening mechanism of the origin of life on Earth. According to the researchers, the cycles of freezing and thawing could become the engine of the evolution of the first cells. They emphasized that repeated temperature fluctuations on ancient Earth could have led to the fusion of the simplest bubbles of protocells, as well as complicated the internal structure.