How Early RNA Molecules May Have Survived Earth's Primordial Waters

A team from Munich’s ORIGINS Cluster of Excellence has uncovered a possible way the first RNA molecules remained stable in Earth’s early waters. Their findings suggest a mechanism that could have protected these fragile molecules long enough for life to begin. RNA is known for storing information and driving biochemical reactions, but it breaks down quickly in water. The researchers found that adding short, preformed RNA strands helped create stable double strands of three to five base pairs. These lasted for hours in laboratory conditions. When two RNA strands pair up, their stability and lifespan increase greatly.

Double-stranded RNA can also fold into shapes that make it catalytically active. This folding further extends its survival in a watery environment. The team noted that protocells with double-stranded RNA boundaries are less likely to fuse, making them more stable.

Life likely started in water, perhaps in a tidal pool. Over billions of years, complex molecules like RNA and DNA formed, eventually leading to the first cells. The discovery may also have implications for medical research. It could improve understanding of RNA’s role in vaccines. The mechanism offers a plausible explanation for how early RNA molecules endured long enough to kickstart life.