Scientists discovered the building blocks of RNA in a cloud at the center of the Milky Way, raising more questions about the origin of life.
The center of the Milky Way as observed with radio and x-ray instruments. Image source: NASA/CXC/UMass/Q.D. Wang & NRF/SARAO/MeerKAT
RNA, or ribonucleic acid, is a molecule similar to DNA. It’s present in all living cells and even behaves similarly to the more well-known double-helix. Unlike DNA’s double-strand, though, RNA is only made up of a single strand. Its overall part in the origin of life is unclear. But, there is some evidence the building blocks of RNA could have preceded DNA.
Could RNA have helped jump-start the generation of life in the universe? It’s possible. But, proving that will be tough.What the scientists found in the cloud, G+0.693-0.027 were nitriles, a group of organic molecules that may have been important in generating RNA in the early universe. The researchers say that the existence of these building blocks of RNA shows that the chemistry could take place in the interstellar medium.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Astronomers spot first planet outside the Milky WayScientists have discovered many exoplanets over the years, but for the first time, they've identified one that exists outside the Milky Way.
Read more »
Astronomers puzzled by ancient Milky Way-like galaxy 12 billion light-years away'The big surprise was to find that this galaxy is actually quite similar to nearby galaxies, contrary to all expectations from the models and previous, less detailed, observations.'
Read more »
Astronomers spot first planet outside the Milky WayScientists have discovered many exoplanets over the years, but for the first time, they've identified one that exists outside the Milky Way.
Read more »
Ukrainian refugees find home in Bay Area, thanks to local company'We can plan and build our future life.'
Read more »
The 25 most popular San Antonio restaurants right now, according to YelpWhen it comes to discovering new dining spots, Yelp can be a handy place to see which are building a buzz. SanAntonio SATX SanAntonioTX SanAntonioFood SanAntonioRestaurants TexasFood TexasRestaurants
Read more »