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Loren Booda
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Does the single-handedness of DNA and RNA indicate that life originated few times, if more than once? What might the sameness between early sequences (in bacteria, say) indicate in this regard?
See here for one hypothesis on evolution of "single-handedness":http://www.nature.com/cgi-taf/DynaPage.taf?file=/nature/journal/v409/n6822/full/409777a0_fs.html. I have not read the paper so cannot comment at this time.Loren Booda said:Does the single-handedness of DNA and RNA indicate that life originated few times, if more than once? What might the sameness between early sequences (in bacteria, say) indicate in this regard?
The origin of one-handedness in biological molecules is not yet clear2. Several explanations have been put forward to explain how homochirality came about, but all are speculative — it is not even known yet whether it arose by chance or by some other means
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic acid) are molecules found in all living organisms that contain genetic information. DNA is responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information, while RNA helps in the process of protein synthesis.
The main difference between DNA and RNA is the sugar molecule they contain. DNA has deoxyribose sugar while RNA has ribose sugar. Additionally, DNA is double-stranded while RNA is single-stranded.
DNA and RNA are essential components for the origin of life as they contain the genetic information needed for life to exist. RNA is believed to have been the first molecule that could store genetic information and catalyze chemical reactions, making it a key player in the evolution of life.
DNA and RNA have symmetries in their base pairing. In DNA, adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T) and guanine (G) pairs with cytosine (C). In RNA, adenine (A) pairs with uracil (U) and guanine (G) pairs with cytosine (C). These symmetries are important for maintaining the structure and function of the molecules.
Both DNA and RNA are important for the origin of life. DNA is responsible for storing genetic information, while RNA plays a crucial role in catalyzing chemical reactions and may have been the first molecule to do so. Without either of these molecules, life as we know it would not exist.