Have you ever pondered the beginnings of life on our planet? While discussions often revolve around biology and chemistry, it’s crucial to also consider the roles of physics, energy, and electrons. According to researcher Josh Mancini from Rutgers University, humans obtain energy from sugars found in our diets; our cells utilize proteins to extract electrons from these sugars and bond them with the oxygen we inhale.

But how did life arise billions of years ago in an environment devoid of both sugars and oxygen? To tackle this enigma, Mancini and his team are recreating the conditions of primordial Earth within a specialized chamber. They are investigating alternative pathways for electron movement that could have existed without oxygen, including hydrogen produced by hydrothermal vents or light energy from the sun.

By employing nickel as a mediator, the researchers are examining how proteins interact with nickel to gain insights into how early life forms might have transformed chemical energy into biological energy. Their aim is to discover how primitive enzymes could have developed into more intricate structures, offering valuable perspectives on the evolution of life on Earth and the potential for life on other planets.

Although they have yet to identify the ideal protein/nickel combination, their research is making strides toward answering one of the most intriguing questions regarding the origins of life. Stay updated on their remarkable findings by subscribing to the Smarter Faster newsletter. Don’t miss out on the latest insights from leading thinkers!