On Tuesday, the 26th scientific journal Nature Communications published the discovery of two DNA bases yet to be observed in carbonaceous meteorites. The research, conducted through a partnership between the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Japan’s Hokkaido University, has found the latest pieces that could help explain early Earth’s chemical evolution.
Although there are models to predict the presence of cytosine and thymine in extraterrestrial samples, previous experiments have yet to detect samples of these nucleotides. Of the five nitrogenous bases of RNA and DNA, only three were observed.
In this new attempt, the experiment was performed with high-performance liquid chromatography, which roughly prepares a “meteorite tea” so that the material can be analyzed. With some changes in the preparation of the material, such as the use of cold water instead of acid and the use of more sensitive validators, the researchers were able to observe the nucleobases.
For Jason P. Dworkin, co-author of the paper affiliated with the Goddard Space Flight Center (NASA), this change in preparation “looks more like a cold drink than a hot tea,” and who was surprised that the initiative was successful, given the vulnerability of cytosine.
Previous experiments have not been successful, the researchers say, as these bases are very sensitive and may have been degraded during the preparation process.
But could meteorites be harbingers of life in the universe? According to scientists, despite the presence of these compounds, it is not possible to say that the Earth received this “extra help” for the existence of life. But finding these nucleobases provides a more solid foundation for understanding the chemical and evolutionary processes that occurred on early Earth.
Observations of these bases, findings of sugar in carbon-rich meteorites, and a new, more sensitive technique for detecting organic compounds pave the way for explanations for how life arose on Earth.
ARTICLE Nature Communications: doi.org/10.1038/s41467-022-29612-x
Source: Tec Mundo
I am Bret Jackson, a professional journalist and author for Gadget Onus, where I specialize in writing about the gaming industry. With over 6 years of experience in my field, I have built up an extensive portfolio that ranges from reviews to interviews with top figures within the industry. My work has been featured on various news sites, providing readers with insightful analysis regarding the current state of gaming culture.
