The bubble theory: exploring the transition from first replicators to cells and viruses in a landscape-based scenario.
Theory Biosci
; 143(2): 153-160, 2024 Jun.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38722466
ABSTRACT
This study proposes a landscape-based scenario for the origin of viruses and cells, focusing on the adaptability of preexisting replicons from the RNP (ribonucleoprotein) world. The scenario postulates that life emerged in a subterranean "warm little pond" where organic matter accumulated, resulting in a prebiotic soup rich in nucleotides, amino acids, and lipids, which served as nutrients for the first self-replicating entities. Over time, the RNA world, followed by the RNP world, came into existence. Replicators/replicons, along with the nutritious soup from the pond, were washed out into the river and diluted. Lipid bubbles, enclosing organic matter, provided the last suitable environment for replicons to replicate. Two survival strategies emerged under these conditions cell-like structures that obtained nutrients by merging with new bubbles, and virus-like entities that developed various techniques to transmit themselves to fresh bubbles. The presented hypothesis provides the possibility for the common origin of cells and viruses on rocky worlds hosting liquid water, like Earth.
Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Vírus
/
Origem da Vida
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Theory Biosci
Assunto da revista:
BIOLOGIA
Ano de publicação:
2024
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Polônia
País de publicação:
ALEMANHA
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ALEMANIA
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DE
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DEUSTCHLAND
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GERMANY