How were DNA and protein molecules formed during the process of the origin of life?

pang xiaofeng submitted, created time 1 year 2 months (www.discover8.com)

We propose a new mechanism for the formation of DNA and protein molecules in the process of the origin of life based on the discovery of clustered chain structures of water molecules of size 2-70nm which exist in addition to the free molecules present in water. We suggest that not only was water a suitable environment for the appearance of DNA and protein molecules in primordial times but also that water molecules, with their clustered chain structures, were the templates for the formation of DNA and protein molecules

Submit comment | Blog It | Email It | Keywords: hydrogen bonds DNA protein self-assembly preliminary structures templates origins of life nanomolecules water hydrogen-bonded water chains

Unmasking DNA

lewis submitted, created time 1 year 4 months (www3.interscience.wiley.com)

A team of researchers at Young University propose the marriage of DNA self-assembly with standard microfabrication and lithography tools to form features such as nanochannels, nanowires and nanoscale trenches. This discovery may open up new avenues for nanofabrication at dimensions not accessible by conventional optical lithography.

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Engineering nanoscale order into a designed protein fiber

addict submitted, created time 1 year 6 months (www.pnas.org)

We have established a designed system comprising two peptides that coassemble to form long, thickened protein fibers in water. This system can be rationally engineered to alter fiber assembly, stability, and morphology. Here, we show that rational mutations to our original peptide designs lead to structures with a remarkable level of order on the nanoscale that mimics certain natural fibrous assemblies.

Submit comment | Blog It | Email It | Keywords: bionanoscience nanofibers peptide assembly rational protein design self-assembly