Origin of Cells

Clay Hypothesis

Organics polymerize on solid surfaces like clay; form cell-like structures (cell membrane/polymers with enzymatic function)

Stage 1

Nucleotides and aa produced prior to existence of cells

Stage 2

Nucleotides and aa become polymerized to form DNA, RNA, and proteins

Stage 3

Polymers become enclosed membranes

Stage 4

Polymers enclosed in membranes evolved cellular properties

Protobiont/Protocell

Polymers with enzymatic function protected by membrane with RNA that allowed self replication and info storage

Chemical Selection and RNA

Certain RNA molecules in a mixture increase in concentration due to advantageous structural/functional properties