Understanding the Role of Layered Minerals in the Emergence and Preservation of Proto-Proteins and Detection of Traces of Early Life: a new paper at the intersection of geosciences, chemistry and biology. The quest to identify the origin of life has led to a wealth of scientific discoveries and brought humankind to space. But the answer to the question of life’s origin is yet to be found. While many theories agree on the importance of minerals for the emergence of life, the actual function of the mineral is debated.In this Account, the SoC’s Valentina Erastova (Chancellor’s Fellow) and Sarah Stewart (NERC PhD candidate) present a comprehensive evaluation of the current understanding of the role of layered mineral surfaces in the emergence and preservation of proto-biomolecules. The Account highlights the complexity of mineral-organic interactions, proposes pathways for the emergence of proto-proteins at the early Earth conditions, and suggests the routes for identification of potential biosignatures during space missions. ACS Accounts of Chemical ResearchThe paper was published in the American Chemical Society’s Accounts of Chemical Research. The Accounts publishes invitation-only articles that are short, concise and critical, offering easy-to-read overviews of research and applications in all areas of chemistry. Read the paper in Accounts of Chemical Research. Cover from Special Issue. Illuminating the origins: Through the kaleidoscopic glass of the Sagrada Familia, a cascade of amino acids, peptides, and small proteins emerge, symbolizing the quest from mystic origins to scientific enlightenment. This vivid artwork captures a transformative journey, mapping the path from mystical beginnings to the concrete foundations of biochemical evolution. We are happy to have the opportunity to bring together knowledge from geosciences, chemistry and biology and we hope that this article will be a stepping-stone to support efforts in uncovering the mystery of abiogenesis and detection of extraterrestrial molecular biosignatures. Dr. Valentina Erastova Chancellor's Fellow Publication date 11 Sep, 2024
