Origin of life twist: New study challenges longstanding hypothesis on how first sugars formed (IMAGE)

Scripps Research Institute

Origin of life twist: New study challenges longstanding hypothesis on how first sugars formed

Caption

During the formose reaction, formaldehyde molecules (red) spontaneously and repeatedly react with each other to create larger molecules. Scripps Research scientists show that this reaction does not result in the production of linear sugars, like ribose (pink), which are the essential building blocks of life.

Credit

Scripps Research

Usage Restrictions

Can be used with related coverage and with credit

License

Original content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.