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Melanoidin and aldocyanoin microspheres - Implications for chemical evolution and early Precambrian micropaleontologyTwo new classes of organic microspheres are described. One of them (melanoidin) is synthesized from amino acids and sugars in heated aqueous solutions. The other (aldocyanoin) is formed in aqueous solutions of ammonium cyanide and formaldehyde at room temperature. The general properties of these microspheres, including conditions of synthesis, size and shape, mechanical and pH stability, and solubility, are compared with corresponding properties of other protocell model systems. It is concluded that melanoidin and aldocyanoin microspheres are plausible candidates for precellular units in the primitive hydrosphere. Since the bulk of the organic carbon in early Precambrian sediments is insoluble kerogen-melanoidin, it is suggested that some Precambrian microfossils may be abiotic melanoidin microspheres.
Document ID
19760057290
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Kenyon, D. H.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Nissenbaum, A.
(NASA Ames Research Center Chemical Evolution Branch, Moffett Field, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 8, 2013
Publication Date
April 9, 1976
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Molecular Evolution
Volume: 7
Subject Category
Chemistry And Materials (General)
Accession Number
76A40256
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NCA2-OR660-506
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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