Life's First Energy Source-new theory
A compound known as dark pyrophosphite could have been a source of energy that allowed the first life on Earth to form, scientists say now. From the smallest bacteria in the human body complex, all living things require a molecule called ATP-transport energy to survive. Often compared to a "rechargeable battery," ATP chemical energy stored in a form that can be used by organic matter. "You need enzymes to produce ATP, and ATP you need to make enzymes," said researcher Terence Kee, University of Leeds in England. "The question is: Where does the power before any of these things existed? We think the answer may lie in simple molecules such as pyrophosphate, which is chemically very similar to the ATP, but has the potential to transfer energy without enzymes. " Dark, but important Before the theories of how life arose from chemistry only have seen a similar compound, but independent pyrophosphate was known as the predecessor to the more ...