Origins and Evolution of Life

Ice drives the emergence of functional protocells

This study shows that freeze-thaw cycles can concentrate molecules, form membrane compartments, and activate a transcription-translation system, suggesting a physical pathway for the emergence of functional protocells.

Reversion to the Meta Body Form of Life after Complete Cell Death in Pure Liquid Water

This study shows that after complete cell death of Staphylococcus aureus in pure water, lipid bilayer microspheres containing RNA and proteins form and exhibit dynamic stability, suggesting a simpler form of life called the Meta Body.