User:Heather Jordan
Heather Jordan
My name is Heather Jordan, and I'm currently a student at Harvard. I just recently joined OpenWetWare as I was searching for information about start-ups. I am currently working on a new protocell concept which not only exploits biomimetic self-assembly but should exhibit rudimentary behavioral characteristics as well. My deep fascination with abiogenesis and everything associated with the Hadean period compelled me to all but abandon the notion of an RNA World, in favor of one firmly rooted in geopeptides. While I do not discount the role of RNA early in the history of life, I feel I must dispute the most widely-accepted entry points; as hereditary carriers and catalysts. More likely, RNA entered into modern biochemistry through an entirely different route; as single nucleotide metabolic cofactors. The growing popularity of exploiting eutectic ice phases to polymerize RNA, warrants consideration since, factors which most likely prevailed in the Hadean would have precluded the formation of ice. If we are to accept the importance of ice as a prerequisite for the foundation of an RNA World, then panspermia must also be accepted as a logical (if undesirable) consequence. Depending on such a fragile and expendable molecule, may be hampering our own progress. If the absence of (ribo)nucleotides from meteorites is not sufficient to bolster this contention, then perhaps the similarity of inorganic catalytic cores to common mineral motifs (true molecular fossils in phylogenetically ancient enzymes) is.
What initially started as a sarcastic challenge issued by a major proponent of the RNA World, has grown into so much more. Affectionately nicknamed, "The Chrys", this biomimetic, scaffolded assemblage incorporates raw materials that would have been common in a Hadean marine setting and constitute a far more durable entity than would be possible as a liposome-encapsulated, ribozyme-based protocell. Furthermore, subtle morphological changes may be triggered through sensitivity of innate chemical processes to environmental triggers. Periodic modulation through tidal flux is thought to serve as the primary driving force in the establishment of cycles. Subtle oscillating perturbations introduced through convection may lead to metabolic diversification as varying morphology limits the exposure of free catalytic surface. Like filtration, substrate adsorption, followed by conversion and encapsulation, in concert with the tides, would effectively remove and concentrate drifting substrate from passing ocean currents. Unlike more recently proposed scenarios where organic compounds exposed to threats on the surface tend to degrade at the rate of synthesis, increasing submersion depth serves as an effective buffer against degradation.
I am seeking out new venues through which to continue refining this concept and guidance from more senior members of the research community who have successfully taken their own models from the drawing board to publication and patent acquisition. Although I would sincerely appreciate guidance from a dedicated mentor, I would be extremely grateful for any advice members could offer.. You can email me through OpenWetWare.
Chrysopoeia ingenuus: "The Chrys"
Anatomy: Metabolism: Reproduction: Ecology: Darwinian Evolution: Rudimentary Behavior:
AARI
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