Several scientific laboratories across the globe are performing research concerning the origin of life on Earth. Suppose one of these laboratories conducts abiotic experiment(s) to test the potential for hydrogen bonding between various nucleic acids and amino acids. Which of the following results of such experiments are most consistent with our current understanding of Earth's first genetic systems?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Choice B represents the formation of peptide nucleic acid (PNA), which is a nucleic acid analogue that is capable of forming hydrogen bonds with amino acids. This is consistent with current understanding of Earth's first genetic systems, which suggest that early genetic materials may have been based on similar structures. Choice A represents the formation of RNA, which is unlikely to have been present in the early Earth environment. Choice C represents the formation of DNA, which is also unlikely to have been present in the early Earth environment. Choice D represents the formation of non-complementary nucleic acid molecules, which would not be consistent with the formation of early genetic systems.

Several Scientific Laboratories Across the Globe Are Performing Research Concerning