How did the first cells come about?

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The discussion centers on the transition from non-living structures like microspheres and coacervates to the first prokaryotic life forms. While it's acknowledged that prokaryotes can evolve into eukaryotes, the exact mechanism connecting these early non-living entities to prokaryotes remains unclear. Various theories suggest that microspheres and genetic material (DNA or RNA) may have developed independently before forming a symbiotic relationship, or that DNA could have created a cellular membrane autonomously. However, no definitive answer exists, leaving the origin of life a subject of ongoing speculation and research.
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I understand how we get microspheres and coacervates, which aren't really living, but how do we get prom these to the first prokaryotes? I understand that once you have the prokaryotes they can coexist to form eukaryotes and so forth, but I can't seem to find out what that little step is that's missing. Thanks =]
 
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Well, that's somewhat of a mystery. What came 1st the chicken or the egg? :)

It is possible, perhaps, that microspheres and DNA(or RNA) developed independently and then eventually joined together in some sort of symbiotic relationship. Or perhaps DNA managed to form a cellular membrane on it's own? I don't think anyone has a definitive answer to that question...just various postulations.

In other words: who knows? hehe

A number of different theories are listed here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Origin_of_life"
 
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